Strengthening Barangay Resilience: Finalizing Disaster Risk Reduction Plans for a Safer, Greener Siargao
As Siargao faces growing environmental pressures—from stronger storms to increasing waste challenges—local planning has never been more critical. To support safer and more resilient communities, Action Against Hunger, in partnership with the Municipal Government of General Luna, held a two-day workshop on the follow-through and finalization of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans last February 19–20, 2026 at Cabuntog Hall and Museum Center.
This activity is part of the broader Siargao Green Economy project funded by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, which promotes environmentally responsible practices while strengthening the resilience of communities that rely on the island’s ecosystems and tourism economy. Updating and refining barangay-level DRRM plans is a key step toward protecting lives, livelihoods, and the natural resources that sustain the island.
Photo by Jaz Dajuya for Action Against Hunger
The workshop opened with a welcome and inspirational message from the Committee Chair on Environment, John Cristopher Silvosa, delivered on behalf of General Luna’s Municipal Mayor, Hon. Johnson Sajulga. He highlighted the municipality’s commitment to strengthening planning at the barangay level and stressed that disaster preparedness is not just a document to complete—it is a shared responsibility that safeguards people, food security, and livelihoods.
Participants from all nineteen barangays attended the workshop, including Punong Barangays, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, Barangay Secretaries, Barangay Treasurers, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS). Their diverse perspectives ensured that the BDRRM Plans were reviewed and refined through a participatory, multi-sectoral approach, reflecting governance, health, and environmental concerns.
The workshop emphasized the importance of integrating solid waste management into disaster preparedness. In island communities like Siargao, unmanaged waste can worsen flooding and damage the coastal ecosystems that communities depend on for food and livelihoods. Aligning disaster strategies with barangay SWM programs, projects, and activities helps prevent environmental hazards while building stronger mitigation and response capacities.
The workshop concluded with the refinement and validation of barangay-level plans, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to coherent and forward-looking local planning.
About the Project
The project fosters climate resilience and green economies in Siargao Island through inclusive, gender-transformative governance, strengthened solid waste management systems, and circular economy initiatives—supporting communities in building a more sustainable and resilient future.
Written by: Joyce Sandajan
Contributors: Conie Ann Isabel Canto, Jaz Dajuya
