Environmental Risk Assessment and Management: A Case Study on Project NOAH in Libagon District

This study examines the application of environmental risk assessment and management in selected schools in the Libagon District, Southern Leyte, Philippines using the Department of Science and Technology's Project NOAH. The objectives of the study were to assess the vulnerability of schools in the Libagon District to natural hazards such as storm surges, landslides, and floods using Geographic Information System techniques. The paper applied a mixed approach in assessing the risks. The results of the study showed that the schools were adequately prepared for earthquake-related risks. However, the schools were not adequately prepared for storm surges. The schools identified as highly vulnerable to storm surges were Gakat Elementary School, Rito Monte de Ramos Sr. Memorial National High School, and Nahulid Elementary School. Kawayan Elementary School, Mayuga Elementary School, and Magkasag Elementary Schools were identified as highly vulnerable to landslide risks. The schools were not vulnerable to flood risks. The paper concluded that Geographic Information System tools were useful in disaster risk reduction.