This type of EWS is an inexpensive way of delivering warnings which allows active involvement from the community in planning the response to disasters. However, there is difficulty in maintaining these community-based EWS due to the lack of support from municipal leaders. The LGU is responsible for the maintenance of the EWS and training of the watchers. But the lack of incentive and low monthly compensation (Php 800 and cellphone load), disrupts the ability of the watchers to perform their tasks well. The current source of funds for the compensation of the watchers are from the barangay funds [1]. A joint memorandum from the Department of Budget Management and the Department of the Interior and Local Government in 2003 allowed for the use of the local calamity fund to maintain disaster risk reduction projects but not many LGUs are aware of this memorandum. Calling for volunteers is also suggested to reinforce the low number of watchers needed to monitor the river water levels [1].

The river basin approach installs rain gauges and water level monitoring systems in different areas of the river basin. The areas are identified through a detailed site survey and entails the measurement of the river capacities to establish flood warning levels. Training and seminars are then conducted for the barangays located in each river basin. The watchers are provided with warning equipment and they have access to communication systems to contact each other. Watchers also man the communication system linked to regional monitoring centers of PAGASA. In order to make sure that all of the members of the community are aware of the actions to be executed during different warning levels, drills are conducted [1].

Community-based EWS is widely accepted by the community due to its significant contribution to disaster awareness and preparedness in the barangays [1].

There is no direct environmental impact for this solution.