We’re No. 1 again!
While we usually gloat about being on top, this is one ‘distinction’ that we are reluctant to own up but we have no other choice, given our geographical location.
For the third consecutive year, the Philippines has been ranked No. 1 in the World Risk Index, a report which came out early this month identifying the countries that are more at risk from natural disasters.
The report was published by the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict and an alliance of nine German Development organizations.
DW (or Deutsche Welle, meaning “German Wave”), a state-owned international broadcast institution, reported that the WRI breaks down 193 countries, with the Philippines on top with a 46.91 index.
The risk report, DW said, covers incidence of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, drought, frequent floods as well as vulnerability to natural disasters, or having little means to face such hazards.
Also mentioned in the report are the most vulnerable countries, with eight in the Top 10 found in the African continent along with Afghanistan and Yemen.
***
GMA News reported that the Philippines is followed by two Asian nations – Indonesia, also an archipelagic country, (41.13) and India (40.96) – and the Americas – Colombia (37.81) and Mexico (35.93).
Rounding up the Top 10 are another ASEAN member, Myanmar (35.85), sixth; Mozambique (34.44), seventh; the Russian Federation (28.12), eighth; Bangladesh (27.73), ninth; and Pakistan (27.02) tenth.
***
Two local occurrences this week reminded us anew of the risks we continuously face in this part of the world.
Typhoon Enteng, which came early this month, claimed at least 20 lives, while Ferdie (Bebinca), the most recent weather disturbance, left at least six persons dead.
Both tropical storms caused many parts of the country, including Negros Occidental, which was actually off the main path, flooding for days.
Another is the renewed restiveness of Mt. Kanlaon which forced widespread evacuation in several areas of Negros Island which are close to the active volcano.
***
The disruption in the lives and activities of affected residents remains a challenge for our leaders and their DRRM team members who are expected to respond 24/7 to people’s needs when calamities strike.
Thanks to the concerned national agency and cooperating corporations for those daily phone alerts to make us aware of situations in our respective areas during critical weather disturbances.
Disaster risk reduction and awareness have become everyone’s business in a country and province where the risk is highest.
***
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. (Psalm 46:1-2) | NWI
