Preserving past tsunami information for future preparedness in Indonesia and the Philippines

Abstract

Recent tsunamis, especially after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, provided a better understanding and knowledge of tsunami science as well as on how to build awareness and preparedness. However, tsunamis that happened before 2004, there is limited and/or scattered data, information, records, and reports of the events. In addition, there is either limited or no eyewitness’s story documented, including pictures and videos. The lack of information makes it difficult for policymakers, researchers, and other institutions to disseminate local and contextualized information to the public in raising awareness and education on disaster preparation and mitigation. If a tsunami has happened in the past, it is most likely to happen again in the future. It is imperative that we learn from the past and prepare for the future. This study aims to improve the knowledge of the impact of the tsunami in selected sites in Indonesia and the Philippines prior to 2004, through investigation of historical documents and archives, as well as documentation of eyewitness accounts. The result of this study is expected to be a more effective way to build awareness and to educate the local community. Having evidence-based of past tsunami event in the area will motivate stronger preparedness. It will also provide a better understanding to the local policymakers, disaster management agencies, as well as the community as it is based on local eyewitness accounts and other local sources, as opposed to using examples from other sites, districts, countries or regions.