This study aimed to quantitatively clarify the differences in disaster preparedness between persons with disabilities and persons without disabilities and examine differences in disaster preparedness by type of disability and sociodemographic characteristics in the Philippines.

Overall, 1025 persons with disabilities and 405 persons without disabilities participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was employed. Disaster preparedness and mental health status were assessed using the Disaster Preparedness for Resilience Checklist (DPRC) and Kessler 6-item Psychological Distress Scale (K6), respectively, in addition to sociodemographic characteristics.

There were significant differences in the DPRC total score and all items (p < 0.01) between persons with and those without disabilities. Furthermore, there were significant differences in the DPRC total score and some items (p < 0.01) between persons with mental or psychosocial disabilities and persons with other disabilities. Persons with disabilities and persons with mental or psychosocial disabilities showed worse disaster preparedness. Furthermore, a multiple regression analysis showed that younger age, self-care disabilities, and communication disabilities were significantly associated with lower scores on the DPRC.

Policies and practices to improve disaster preparedness for marginalized populations are needed.