This Capstone Project is an innovation to the existing MGB scheme of providing landslide warning to LGUs in Albay. It aims to provide accurate, easy-to-interpret, timely, and regularly updated landslide warning information. The scholar, with the help of the MGB-V project team, designed the landslide Early Warning System and had it tested during Typhoon Ulysses in November 2020. The results were then used in the calibration of rainfall thresholds for better performance.

The landslide EWS was based on rainfall thresholds derived from selected rainfall parameters. It also considered the geologic and geomorphic conditions in Albay and divided the Province into different warning landscapes. After determining the rainfall thresholds, subsequent calibration was made using a new rainfall-landslide dataset.

The project intends to empower LCEs and LDRRMOs in making decisions concerning landslide preparedness and safety measures. It also seeks to contribute to the long-term goal of reducing casualties due to landslides.

The threshold-based landslide early warning system is designed to constantly improve its performance in providing landslide warning information. Considering its iterative nature, combined with the target improvements in the data, methods and technology used, the project is expected to become an effective and efficient decision-making tool in reducing landslide casualties.

The project is also designed to build on and strengthen inter-government partnerships involving MGB-V, PAGASA, and SLPRSD, particularly on landslide preparedness and landslide risk reduction initiatives and thrusts. Stronger partnerships would lead to more productive collaborations among these NGAs, which could translate into better linkages with LGUs. And with continued LGU support and cooperation, the project’s sustainability can be assured.