Multicriteria flood risk assessment in Metro Manila, Philippines

Metro Manila is a global megacity that experiences some of the world’s worst natural disasters, as a result of geological (e.g. earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis) and hydrometeorological hazards (e.g. tropical cyclones and floods). According to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) database, from January 2005 to September 2014, hydro-meteorological disaster is the most dominant type of natural disaster. In addition, exposure of Metro Manila and other highly urbanized local government units (LGUs) to these type of disasters is high. The objective of this research is to properly address urban characteristics by introducing a specific urban-type set of economical, social and ecological flood risk criteria. Different levels of flood risk will be presented in spatial maps using geographic information system (GIS). Results of this study is expected to provide a significant leap in understanding flood hazard and risk in Metro Manila, and will form a scientific basis that will influence policies and flood mitigation measures such as planning guidelines, land use planning, and risk insurance.