By: Marie Claire P. Mandar
“Ang katutubong pananaw ay nakatago sa ilalim. Hindi natin makikita ang hindi hinahanap. (The indigenous perspective is hidden underneath. We cannot see what we are not looking for.)” These impactful words from Dr. JC Galliard, spoken during the 8th episode of the Resilience LIVE webinar, aired on the 25th of April 2024, encapsulates the message of his presentation – Ang Kabalintunaan ng Pananaliksik Tungkol sa Disaster: Hegemonya, Pagtunggali, at Pagasa (The Paradox of Disaster Research: Hegemony, Conflict, and Hope).
Dr. Galliard, a professor of geography in Waipapa Taumatu Rau, Aotearoa and an international research fellow of the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute (UP RI), previously served as a faculty member in the Department of Geography at UP. His research primarily focuses on disasters and calamities. Additionally, he has several projects together with non-government organizations (NGOs) and local government units (LGUs) throughout the Philippines. For further information about Dr Galliard, you may visit his website at https://jcgaillard.wordpress.com.
Dr. Galliard’s presentation highlighted the paradox of disaster research in the country. While disaster is widely acknowledged as a social construct, the concepts, theories, and methods employed to study disasters in the country predominantly originate from western sources. Dr. Gaillard delved into the reasons behind this paradox, exploring how western ideological hegemony influences disaster research. He emphasized the significance of challenging the ruling ideology frames how communities approach disaster adaptation and mitigation. Western-centric views greatly affect how disasters are understood and managed, prevailing over local perspectives and knowledge systems. This dominance not only encourages a form of intellectual dependency but also aligns disaster research and risk reduction strategies with Western interests and priorities.
Relying on foreign frameworks risks overlooking culturally specific needs and locally effective practices. Dr. Gaillard recommends a pluriverse approach where diverse perspectives and sources are integrated and their interconnectedness is considered. This approach ensures that all different understandings are valued and utilized in disaster research and management.
Dr. Gaillard’s presentation urged scholars and practitioners to seek a balance between utilizing valuable global knowledge and fostering homegrown theories and methods. This shift would not only enrich disaster research but also empower local communities by integrating their voices and experiences into disaster risk reduction and management strategies.
In line with Dr. Galliard’s recommendation, the UP RI NOAH Center is dedicated to implementing a participatory approach in the formulation of local development plans and other relevant projects. We actively invite and involve local stakeholders in our workshops, ensuring that insights from diverse sectors are considered and integrated into our initiatives.
Dr. Galliard’s presentation urges us to rethink how we approach disaster research and management. By valuing indigenous perspectives and embracing diversity, we can create more inclusive strategies. Let’s work together to empower communities and find a balance between global knowledge and local wisdom. With teamwork and a commitment to involving everyone, we can face disasters with hope and resilience.
Episode 7 featuring Dr. JC Galliard may be viewed here:
Mark your calendars! The next Resilience Live episode is scheduled for 30 May 2024, and will be conducted via Zoom conferencing. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for all the latest updates!