OVERVIEW
Many low-lying coastal, river-delta mega-cities, already stressed by rapid population growth and economic, social, health and cultural challenges, are now increasingly vulnerable due to climate change. The Philippines is identified among the top countries most exposed and vulnerable to natural hazards, and with highest urban risk. Coastal cities in the Philippines are highly vulnerable to catastrophic climate and disaster events due to natural hazards and coastal, riverine and deltaic urbanization patterns. Metro Manila, Iloilo, and Naga, for example, are experiencing rising climate and disaster risks not only because of natural hazards but also due to rapid urbanization, population growth, weak infrastructural and economic bases, and water insecurity, among others.
OBJECTIVES
The project aims to enhance the capacity of coastal cities in Metro Manila, Iloilo, and Naga through better understanding of the complexity and dynamics of climate and disaster risk by (1) undertaking new transdisciplinary action research; (2) building capacity of resilience scientists and practitioners, (3) strengthening public-private partnerships, and (4) informing the resilience plans of cities. Through co-creation, co-management and co-ownership in resilience-building by local and national governments, academic and scientific institutions, private sector, and other stakeholders, coastal cities will be better equipped to prepare, adapt, and transform for a resilient future. The project is implemented by the Ateneo de Manila University and Manila Observatory, in partnership with the National Resilience Council and with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
Coastal Cities at Risk in the Philippines 