Comparing flood risk drivers and adaptation responses in Indonesia and the Philippines

The drivers of flood risk are increasingly complex, intertwined and local. International comparative analysis of these local socioenvironmental systems has the potential to strengthen governance mechanisms of flood risk. This research presents two case studies from Indonesia and the Philippines, showing distinct patterns of flood risk shifts. We show how what appear to be disparate culprits of worsening flooding stem from persistent livelihood vulnerabilities and exposure encroachment into flood-prone areas. Using hydrological modelling, surveys, interviews, focus groups and serious games, we describe emerging flood challenges in the case sites and identify how local governments respond. We argue that conceptualising hazards, vulnerability and exposure as independent in flood risk assessments is no longer sufficient. Our results identify escalating drivers of flooding and advocate for more holistic disaster risk reduction measures.