Children involved in GNIP’s child-led DRRM program

Selected students from supported communities of Good Neighbors Interntional Philippines (GNIP) took part in a child-led disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) training during the first two quarters of 2017. The training is part of GNIP’s program aimed to enhance the capacity of children during emergency events.

Teaching prevention, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation

The program was launched on January 2017 with the first quarter focusing on module development. Produced by GNIP, the child-led DRRM module includes The Philippine Disaster Situation in the local and national context, basic DRRM concepts including hazards, vulnerabilities, capacities, and an overview of the DRRM laws of the country. The module also tackles the topic of prevention and mitigation which discusses to students the importance and basic procedures on risk assessment, hazard mapping, and early warning systems. Thematic areas of DRRM are also discussed including disaster preparedness, contingency planning, simulation or drills, emergency response and basic first-aid and life support, as well rehabilitation following the Build Back Better approach.

The program was implemented from April to July 2017. As of June 2016, three GNIP-supported communities implemented the module with over 43 students trained in child-led DRRM.

Roll-out shows positive outcomes

“The program roll-out has shown positive and significant results; when children attend the DRRM training, you can clearly see their interest in the new topic and they express how they look forward to more trainings,” says DRRM Staff Benj Mendoza. She adds how it is important to build the capacity and skills of children in disaster preparedness and response as it maximizes their potential and participation.

Turning vulnerability to capacity

Children are considered to be one of the most vulnerable during emergencies. Together with the perceived vulnerability usually comes the misconception that they are weak and incapable of protecting themselves. The DRR training is GNIP’s response and effort to build children’s capacity and knowledge on DRRM; to provide children a space to express and hear their perspective on DRRM; and to enable the children to propose their own DRRM plan which they can possibly initiate and participate in.

Going beyond a child’s right to safety and protection

Aside from developing kids’ knowledge and action on DRRM, the program is also GNIP’s initiative to promote child participation in communities. As a child-focused organization, GNIP aims for children to realize their rights to safety and survival. Aside from these, children also have rights which are usually compromised during disaster events such as their right to education and health. These concerns are usually overlooked by adults; that is why GNIP pushes for child participation during disasters wherein children and youth are given the opportunity to voice out issues that concerns them. Altogether, these are essential in developing a disaster resilient community.

Good Neighbors envisions a child who is aware of his vulnerability and strength and uses his capacity to help and contribute to disaster resiliency through strategic planning participation and DRRM plan creation.