In the Philippines, an incredibly useful manual has been published that guides local government agencies in preparing for and responding to landslides.
The Philippines has a long term landslide problem, with most events being triggered by either rainfall associated with typhoons or by earthquakes. However, the Philippines is also proactively trying to manage the losses at both a national and local level, which has included an unusual and welcome level of transparency about the impacts of such events.
The Philippines has a major, long term programme, Operation L!STO, to promote disaster resilience as a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach”. It spans a range of hazards, including landslides. As part of the effort, a series of manuals are being produced to guide government agencies before, during and after major hazards.
Operation L!STO has published an incredibly useful manual for disaster preparedness for landslides. This is available online, and it is applicable well beyond the confines of the Philippines.
The manual includes the following main sections:
Glossary of Terms of Acronyms
I. Introduction
II. Understanding Landslides and its Early Warning Systems
III. Early Action Against Landslide Risks: Local Preparedness Steps Before a Hazard
Occurs
IV. Early Action Against Landslide Risks: Readiness Actions Checklist
V. Checklist of Minimum Critical Preparedness Actions for LGUs
VI. Minimum Preparedness Measures: LGU Checklist of Observable Indicators for
Possible Landslides
VII. Template of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Landslide
Reference Materials
Whilst the Operation L!STO manual is specific to the Philippines, it could easily be adapted to another national setting, or converted into a more general manual that applies broadly. It is impressive to see clarity on roles and responsibilities at each point in the hazard chain. Ultimately, the manual states that:
“Our goal is to empower LGUs [local government units] to take decisive actions, mitigate risks, and ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. Through collaboration, capacity building, and continuous improvement of our disaster preparedness strategies, we can build more resilient communities capable of withstanding the impacts of natural hazards.”
It is hard to disagree with this approach.