Critical and Reflective Essay on the DRRM of Marikina Heights

In the interview, I was told about the calamities that happened in the past in Marikina Heights. Fortunately, as per our Barangay Secretary who's been with our barangay for more than 30 years, Marikina Heights hasn't experienced extreme flooding or tragedy. With that being said, the last most destructive calamity to hit our barangay was Typhoon Ondoy. After that incident, the local government unit improved its efforts and tools. Thanks to that, the LGU of Marikina Heights was able to prevent future disasters from happening.

While we were walking, I thought that Marikina Heights, if not the entirety of Marikina, was one the model barangays in our country. Not only are its facilities and equipment prepared, but also its constituents. They regularly hold seminars for people so that they are aware of what to do in case of emergency. The funny thing is, in times of disaster, Marikina Heights actually focuses more on helping neighboring barangays in relief because our barangay does not experience a disaster that much. I think that is something to be thankful for, at least.

I'm saddened, however, because I can not say the same for other barangays who are more prone to disaster and are less prepared. The Philippines has a high risk with regards to calamities and tragedies and it's sad because we do not learn from our past mistakes. Several typhoons have passed: Ondoy, Pepeng, Yolanda, etc. Still, we do very little about our disaster-preparedness. If only we invest in education and resources, we can expect a better outcome next time. Hopefully, this administration (or, maybe the next one) can touch upon the topic and make some positive changes.

In conclusion, I think we should step up to the call to action for disaster and risk reduction management. I do believe that not only the LGU's are resonsible but we, as members of the community, as well. We have to be educated and respond to proper practices so that we are able to cope properly when it comes to the worst case scenario. I realized that I should be more concerned and pay more attention to our barangay's efforts. Just because we aren't immensely affected, doesn't mean we should be complacent. There is room for improvement always and from that, we grow as a community in fostering a better living situation for all.