Blaan Tribe Indigenous Knowledge in Disaster Risk Reduction in the Municipality of Magsaysay, Davao Del Sur, Philippines

Abstract

Aims: This study conducted research on the Blaan Tribe's indigenous knowledge in disaster risk reduction, that is, earthquake preparedness and response, within the Municipality of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. The study sought to document the traditional strategies being used by the community towards earthquake risk mitigation and to test their relevance with modern urban disaster management practices. Study Design: The study used Qualitative Descriptive Phenomenological Design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Barangay Balnate, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, Philippines, between January 2023 and July 2023. Methodology: Seven Blaan Tribe participants, who were purposively sampled, participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). FGDs were conducted with a validated semi-structured interview guide. Data were analyzed using Braun & Clarke's six-step thematic analysis to derive emerging themes related to indigenous disaster preparedness strategies. Ethical clearance was provided by the University of Mindanao Ethics Committee, and informed consent was sought from all participants. Results: Thematic analysis revealed that the Blaan people relied on environmental indicators such as unusual animal behavior, changes in water levels, and changes in wind patterns as precursors to earthquakes. Their adaptation strategies were constructing elevated wooden houses with support from large stones to absorb the shock and performing practical measures based on environmental observations. The communities emphasized the importance of passing indigenous knowledge orally to be able to provide community resilience. The study also found that while these indigenous methods proved effective, they were not necessarily incorporated into official disaster preparedness schemes. Conclusion: Indigenous knowledge is the foundation of disaster risk reduction among the Blaan Tribe. They could be tapped, identified, and integrated into traditional disaster management methods to enhance the resilience of the community. Drawing from the research, the local government units should design culturally responsive disaster preparedness policies that would utilize indigenous ways and scientific technologies in disaster risk reduction.