Journalists in Action in Disaster Prevention

EE5

2006. Typhoon “Milenyo”, Metro Manila and Bicol, 279 dead. 2009. Typhoon “Ondoy”, Metro Manila, 464 dead. 2010. Super typhoon "Juan". 26 dead.  Is this a devil’s nightmare or the truth of life? If the truth, how can it be prevented? Is this what Philippines worth living for? To be destructed by typhoons and earth quakes and what more? What can be a contribution of a young journalist to this problem that have caused many casualties in the country for a long time?

In the Philippines, typhoons and earthquakes are most likely to occur because of its geographical location

on earth. The country is near the equator which is the hottest point on earth. Hence, the climate is tropical. The country is also belongs to the ring of fire where the most active volcanoes are found. In the Philippines alone, 27 of the active volcanoes are found including Mayon volcano in Albay, Mount Taal in Cavite and Mt. Bulusan, recently active causing the evacuation of the residents there.  Being in the ring of fire, the country is also prone to earthquakes. The most recent report is the magnitude 5 earthquake that hit Zambales last night and affected some parts of Metro Manila. Surrounded by bodies of water, Philippines is a meeting place of typhoons.

Aside from the geographical location of the country are also prone to disasters due to climate change. Climate change is caused by extreme heat in the atmosphere from carbon dioxide gases that can be found in aerosol sprayers and cans. This is also caused by the deforestation of the forests which increase the danger for the trees are responsible for seeping rainwater. Pollution is mainly caused by improper waste disposal which affects the air, water and land.

Having explained the causes of disasters of the Philippines, we must now know how to prevent it. Since most disasters are environmental ( others are man-made like hostage taking, kidnapping for ransom, etc.,), it is inevitable and cannot be prevented from happening but the damage it can inflict can be lessen if we know specific pointers. This includes careful planning and drills for future implementing. In this way, all can be worry-free from the harm of disasters.

As earlier said, careful planning and implementing in drills are part of protecting yourself and your family from disasters. Learning how to plan is being prepared. Disaster preparedness is very important to avoid confusion and havoc during a disaster. It proves discipline in a person. If one is prepared, we can be rest assured of our safety. If we are assured of our safety, we don’t panic.

We in our own way can be prepared. Even a little child can be prepared in his/her own way. We do not only ensure our safety but also partake in the world’s teamwork in preparing for disasters. As young journalists, our eyes are open to what is really happening. Journalists have the advantage of knowing facts and news earlier than other people do. But how can journalists share in the awareness of disaster preparedness? What could be our role in the prevention of disasters?

As journalists, news are reported especially those that affects a lot of people like typhoons. Journalists coordinate with PAG-ASA in reporting the daily weather in different parts of the country. PHIVOLCS in their part join journalists in reporting updates about active volcanoes and earthquakes. Also, journalists have their share in giving relief goods to those affected by disasters. They also send donations from good-hearted offering their help to the needy. Journalists are the human cellphones. They send message to the people, near and far.

Everyone has his/her share in every project. The loss of one is the defeat of the

whole. It is goal of disaster preparedness to promote teamwork in every individual. Without this, the aim of preparing for disaster would be regardless and Philippines would always be the country known for its disasters.