Abstract:
The Philippines is known as the most disaster-prone country in the world. Due to its
geographical location, the archipelago is highly susceptible to disaster risks, among them is the
hazard of flooding. Meanwhile, Filipinos, particularly women, have emerged to be the frontline
responders during disaster and flooding events, proving that they are very much capable of
disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). This qualitative case study research aims to
examine the role of women in DRRM in Marikina City, one of the most flood-prone areas in the
country’s capital. The study utilized a key informant interview (KII) and focus group discussions
(FGDs) with 17 participants selected based on their experience with flooding in the locality.
Using a thematic analysis, emerging themes from the interviews are the (1) disaster problems and
risks of flooding, (2) local DRRM programs implemented, (3) specific activities and tasks
undertaken by women in DRRM, and (4) challenges that women face in DRRM. It was
discovered that women indeed play an important role in DRRM in Marikina City and their
involvement in the field needs to be further recognized, included, enhanced, and celebrated.
