Schools are among the critical facilities that are significantly affected by disasters, not only because of the direct impact caused by disasters to the physical infrastructure, but also because they function as evacuation centers for displaced families. Based on the Hyogo Framework for Action and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, the Comprehensive School Safety (CSS) Framework was developed. CSS laid down three pillars that will ensure educational management information systems and disaster management plans, from the national to local levels, are anchored in evidence-based, multi-hazard risk assessment. While several planning guides and tools were developed to operationalize the CSS Framework, most of the conducted studies, assessments, and evaluations focused on integrating disaster preparedness and response into the school curriculum, as well as in strengthening existing instrumentalities to boost the resilience of schools to disasters. However, the existing literature is limited on the actual mainstreaming of disaster risks and hazards in school planning, construction, and facility management as espoused under the pillar on Safe Learning Facilities. Using the case of Kaunlaran High School in Navotas City, Metro Manila, this study assessed disaster risk mainstreaming in educational facilities planning and the extent of collaboration between the key actors involved. Specific avenues of collaboration between national and local governments were also identified and assessed to identify gaps and offer recommendations for improving collaborative safer schools planning in the local context.
