Population Dynamics and Climate Resilience: Enhancing Community Response to Landslides in the Philippines

Vlada Perekrestova, Academia Sinica

In the Philippines, provinces like Albay, Benguet, Sorsogon, and Northern Samar frequently face landslides during heavy rains, posing significant threats to communities and infrastructure. This study explores the intersection of population dynamics, such as the norm where men make the decision for everyone to evacuate, environmental challenges, and climate change by examining the effectiveness of early warning systems, particularly Project LIGTAS (Landslide Investigations on Geohazards for Timely Advisories in the Philippines). Additionally, it investigates the social factors and norms, including the low societal position of women, which affect evacuation and disaster response. In April 2024, I conducted field studies and interviews to collect data on these aspects. The aim is to provide recommendations for improving early warning systems, enhancing community resilience, and informing policies that integrate social factors into disaster risk management. This research is essential for addressing the complex interplay between population growth, environmental stress, and climate change impacts.

Keywords: Population and Development, Mortality and Longevity, Population, Environment, and Climate Change, Inequality, Disadvantage and Discrimination

See extended abstract.