Disaster Preparedness Guide

Section 01

Family Emergency Plan

A family emergency plan ensures everyone knows what to do before, during, and after a disaster. Sit down with your household and complete these steps:

Meeting points: Choose two – one right outside your home (e.g., neighbour's yard) and one outside your barangay (e.g., barangay hall, church).
Out-of-province contact: Identify a relative or friend outside Basilan who can act as a central communication point.
Emergency contacts: Write down PDRRMO hotline, barangay captain, police, fire, and nearest hospital.
Evacuation route: Know the safest way to the nearest evacuation centre. Practice the route twice a year.
Special needs: Plan for elderly members, persons with disabilities, infants, and pets.

Ready-to-use template: Download Family Emergency Plan (PDF)

Section 02

Evacuation Maps & Centres

Know the location of designated evacuation centres and hazard zones in your municipality. Below are the interactive and downloadable resources:

Pro tip: Keep a printed copy of your barangay's evacuation map inside your go-bag.

Section 03

Emergency Go-Bag Checklist

Prepare a bag that can sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Tick items as you pack.

Download printable checklist

Section 04

Understanding Early Warnings

Learn how to interpret colour-coded rainfall and typhoon signals from PAGASA / NDRRMC.

Yellow Rainfall Warning

Expect flooding in low-lying areas. Monitor updates.

Orange Rainfall Warning

Significant flooding is threatening. Prepare to evacuate.

Red Rainfall Warning

Serious flooding expected. Evacuate immediately.

Typhoon Signal #1–5

#1 = 30–60 km/h winds (monitor); #5 = >220 km/h (catastrophic).

Sign up for SMS alerts: Text "BASILAN ALERT" to 2929 (free for Globe/Smart).
Or follow @dromics on X for real-time updates.

Section 05

Drills & Community Training

Regular drills save lives. PDRRMO Basilan conducts quarterly exercises open to the public.

Earthquake drill – every March & September (Nationwide Simultaneous)
Fire drill – coordinate with your barangay fire auxiliary
Flood evacuation drill – announced via barangay captains
Basic Life Support & First Aid – free training for barangay volunteers (contact PDRRMO)

Request a barangay workshop: Fill out the training request form or call (062) 991-1111.

Section 06

Special Needs & Vulnerable Groups

Disasters disproportionately affect the elderly, PWDs, pregnant women, children, and those with chronic illnesses. Plan ahead:

Register with your barangay – inform them of any mobility, medical, or communication needs.
Prepare a medical summary (conditions, allergies, medications) and keep in your go-bag.
Arrange a "buddy system" – a neighbour or relative who can assist during evacuation.
Pet emergency kit – leash, carrier, food, vaccination records.

For additional assistance, contact the PDRRMO Social Welfare Unit at social@basilan.gov.ph.

Section 07

Post-Disaster Recovery

After the immediate threat passes, focus on safety, documentation, and accessing aid.

Wait for official "all clear" before returning home. Listen to PDRRMO or barangay announcements.
Inspect your home – gas leaks, electrical damage, structural cracks. Do not enter if unsafe.
Document damages – take photos/videos for insurance or government assistance (DSWD, LGU).
Apply for financial aid – visit your Municipal Social Welfare Office with proof of identity and damage documentation.
Mental health support – free counselling available through PDRRMO hotline or NGF Cares (0927-555-3583).

Download: Post-Disaster Recovery Checklist

Section 08