Abstract

This research project was a pioneering attempt in the field of hazard vulnerability-risk assessment for active volcanoes in the Philippines. Generally, the study aimed to determine the risks posed by volcanic hazards in the Mayon Volcano are and formulate viable loss reduction strategies. The study was limited to Mayon Volcano because it was the most documented active volcano in the country. Considering the hazard proneness of the entire Philippine archipelago, the project constituted a significant step toward the generation of vital inputs to disaster mitigation and avoidance. Statistiscal techniques/tools and models were developed to tackle questions on: (1) the probability of occurrence of volcanic hazards in the Mayon Volcano area within a given time; (2) how vulnerable are areas delineated as volcanic hazard zones; (3) elements at risk in the area and how their values can be determined; (4) how much risk is posed by volcanic hazards in the Mayon Volcano area and how risk can be measured; and (5) how much will be the risk 20 - 30 years hence and how this can be projected.