In a significant move to strengthen disaster risk reduction (DRR) and build resilient communities, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, in partnership with the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and the ACCESS consortium (CARE and ACCORD), is leading initiatives to protect the Mindanao River Basin. Spearheaded by Project Leader and Assistant Dean of the College of Engineering, EnP/Engr Jefferson R Vallente Jr, these efforts are setting a new standard for proactive disaster preparedness in the region.

 

The project's cornerstone is the Mindanao River Basin Landscape Risk Assessment research. This detailed document was created by a dedicated team led by EnP/Engr Vallente, which includes Engr Leonore Ellen Rose L Lumantas, Engr Gifrey John M Sulay, Engr John Michael V Osia, Engr Dexter S Lo, Victoria Melissa Pulido, Cherry Mae Selma, and Engr Jan Taat. The research was co-created with input from NGOs and community partners, a collaborative method that was vital in improving local Early Warning Systems. The research's findings are essential for improving local DRR strategies and developing a strong Early Warning System within the basin, which is a key effort of the Mindanao River Basin Management Council (MRBMC), along with regional and local government units.

 

The research reveals several critical issues facing the basin:

• Increased environmental risks: The research highlights increased flood and landslide risks due to environmental degradation across the basin. In Dangcagan, Bukidnon, a decrease in primary forests, unsustainable farming methods like slash-and-burn, and rapid urbanization have negatively impacted the basin's ability to manage water.
• Deteriorating water quality: The Pulangi River system's water quality is worsening, with signs of more frequent fish kills, a drop in aquatic biodiversity, and higher turbidity. This is mainly caused by agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and increased sediment from soil erosion.

Compounding socio-political and economic vulnerabilities: The research explains how socio-political and economic issues worsen the effects of natural hazards. In Bagoenged, Pagalungan, for example, recurring floods have destroyed homes and reduced farming activities. Widespread poverty, conflict-induced displacement, and land disputes have also been shown to hinder communities' ability to recover from disasters.

The project also points out challenges in monitoring and response. Despite existing monitoring stations and DRRM structures, significant gaps remain. In Cotabato City, the constant threat of flooding is made worse by the mixed functionality of Early Warning Systems, with many stations not working correctly.

The Mindanao River Basin Landscape Risk Assessment Research acts as both a warning and a guide. It shows the urgent need for action while also highlighting the potential for collective, community-based resilience. The project underscores that resilience is not built alone but grows from the ground up through inclusive systems, empowered communities, and sustained collaboration. The study also presents a call to action—to continue listening, learning, and leading together for a safer, more just, and better-prepared Mindanao.