Hello! My name is Mel Phillip D. Manapol, but feel free to call me Mel. Through my past involvement in community health work, I’ve taken part in a range of public health initiatives — particularly those centered on maternal and child care, immunization campaigns, and health education at the barangay level. These experiences have exposed me to the harsh realities faced by underserved communities and highlighted the significant impact disasters have on vulnerable populations, especially in densely populated and highly urbanized areas like Manila.
In taking this disaster nursing course, I hope to acquire practical skills and knowledge in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, with a clear focus on community-based approaches. I am especially eager to deepen my understanding of the role nurses play in disaster risk reduction and management, and how we can help communities strengthen their resilience in the face of emergencies.
My personal objective is to grow as a community health nurse who can effectively contribute to or lead disaster response efforts in Metro Manila. I aim to develop the ability to carry out risk assessments, design localized disaster response plans, and work closely with local government agencies and non-government organizations to create a well-coordinated and inclusive response, ensuring that the needs of marginalized groups are not overlooked during times of crisis.