EVP Terminal Report: Operations research for disaster preparedness and response Exchange Visitor: Dr. Joline Ann V. Uichanco Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
[email protected] Partner Institution: Ateneo de Manila University January 7, 2015 Abstract This terminal report describes the project conducted by the above-named exchange visi- tor with the objective of developing operations research models for disaster preparedness and response. The report describes the objectives of the project, the activities undertaken, the find- ings based on field visits, the development of the mathematical model, and conclusions based on the model. This terminal report is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Exchange Visitor Program alternative arrangement for technical knowledge transfer. 1 Review of activities undertaken The objective of this project are as follows: 1. Utilization of quantitative models in Operations Research to make recommendations for im- proving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Philippine disaster response. 2. Development of a mathematical model for disaster management that: (a) would be used as the basis of the decision-support tool for coordinating relief operations in the aftermath of a disaster, (b) can be used to simulate and estimate the benefit of coordinated operations, (c) can quantify the benefits of particular investments in infrastructure that would improve the Philippines resilience to disasters This project consisted broadly of four phases, namely: 1 • Data gathering • Mathematical modeling • Evaluation of the model • Development of a decision-support tool A brief description of each phase and the summary of activities undertaken in each phase follows. Phase Description Data gathering This phase consisted of compiling data on the affected population from Typhoon Yolanda, data of Visayas municipalities, and data of Visayas' transportation network (sea routes, air routes, road networks connecting municipalities and cities, and air).