The community of Banaba is affected by flooding almost every year. For the residents of this small community just outside Manila, it isn't a question of if there will be more flooding, but when. But these inspiring community members aren't taking matters lying down - they've organised themselves and come up with a solution. Your donations allow them to build defenses which will protect their homes and prevent their roads eroding.
In 2011 the Philippines was affected by 33 disasters, making it the world's most disaster affected country. A large portion of these disasters were floods which have devastating effects on the small community of Banaba. The flood waters erode river banks where many houses are located leaving them at risk of collapsing into the river. Roads are also washed away. Without an access road, not only are day-to-day tasks difficult, but community can't escape during escape during floods.
While no one can control the weather, there is a great deal that can be done to defend against it. The community of Banaba has come together to form a community group called Buklod Tao. One of Buklod Tao's activities is to build flood defences using steel cages filled with large stones. These cages, laid together, create retaining walls which protect river-banks and roads from erosion. With floods getting worse year by year, these defences are becoming key to community survival.
This project will protect roads and river banks from erosion due to flooding. As the defenses are built using steel cages filled with stone they will provide protection for years to come. This work will impact the lives of each and every resident in Banaba. Keeping homes safe and the roads open will not only save lives during an emergency but will also allow the community to develop and become stronger on a day-to-day basis.
