Enhancing disaster preparedness and response in higher education: Basis for a P.E.-Integrated “Evacuate and Escape” Program

This study aimed to assess the impact of the Physical Education–Integrated Disaster Preparedness and Response Program on the disaster readiness of tertiary students. The program, implemented within the PATHFIT course at Jose Rizal University, combined physical disaster drills with reflective activities to improve students’ emergency response capabilities. Using a one-group pre-test and post-test design, the study evaluated students’ performance in disaster response drills before and after the program. The results showed significant improvements in students’ physical and cognitive preparedness, with post-test mean scores ranging from 4.33 to 4.45, compared to pre-test scores of 2.77 to 3.00, indicating substantial enhancement across all stages of experiential learning. Survey results on the program’s effectiveness showed that students rated the program highly for its clarity, realism, and contribution to their disaster readiness. The findings suggested that the program enhanced students’ physical readiness, decision-making, teamwork, and overall disaster response capabilities. Based on these results, it is recommended that the program be further integrated into the curriculum to strengthen disaster preparedness across academic institutions.