LAUSR

Abstract Earthquake is considered to be the most destructive and terrifying among all the natural disasters. The disaster by nature is predisposed to devastate and even trap vulnerable families to an interminable poverty. The present study thereby examined the impact of the magnitude 6.5 earthquake that struck the province of Leyte in July 6, 2017, with the main objective of assessing and understanding the impacts of the earthquake on physical, human, social, and financial assets of the affected community in Brgy. Lake Danao. The study employed a stratified random sampling technique in selecting the 120 respondents. The study used a door-to-door survey and applied descriptive and correlational methods of research. Results showed that damages incurred by the basic physical assets directed to displacement of the affected households. The impact on school facilities as well as the displacement of households had interrupted the children's education. Existing health issues of the residents were worsened because of traumatic shock and unfavourable environment in the evacuation centers. A sudden shift of sanitary facilities from basic to limited sanitation was also observed. Eventually, a significant and substantial reduction of income was heavily experienced by the affected families especially on the agriculture sector. These impacts on the community were amplified due to absence of hazard mitigation practices and poor emergency preparedness practices of the affected community. Therefore, combined impacts of earthquake on physical, human, social and financial assets of the community formed a cumulative impact of disaster on the affected community.