In August 2012, Metro Manila and its environs were affected by a period of heavy and continuous rainfall caused by an enhanced monsoon season (Habagat). The disaster affected millions because of flooding and rainfall-induced landslides. Christian Aid, a UK-based international development and relief agency, produced an interactive documentary on the Habagat disaster. The interactive documentary features community members in the flood-prone Marikina City, Dr. Carlos Primo C. David from the National Institute of Geological Sciences, Professor Fernando Siringan from the Marine Science Institute and Father Jose Ramon Villarin from the Manila Observatory. In the documentary, Fr. Villarin speaks about how climate change will continue to challenge vulnerable urban communities and the important role of science in preparing for climate change and reducing disasters. Fr. Villarin is the President of the Ateneo de Manila University, the Chairman of the Manila Observatory Board of Trustees and a former member of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize co-winner Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
The documentary explores how scientists are training poor and vulnerable communities to understand their environment and reduce their risks by understanding the science.
