Assessing vulnerability is a crucial step in order to identify the risks and come up with appropriate solution.  Siargao’s revised Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape Plan takes into consideration the geologic hazards, climate change related hazards as well as the hazards brought about by illegal fishing, unregulated cutting of mangroves and other destructive practices. The farming and fishing communities of Siargao Island are highly dependent on available natural resources and coastal villages in particular are exposed to climate related hazards. There is therefore a pressing need for Siargao to develop a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of climate change, both on the environment and on its socio-economic development, as well as measures to manage these impacts. 

Understanding the risks  and vulnerabilities is also necessary in identifying the organizations and people who have the technical skills and capability to assist in the identification of adaptation strategies.  Sentro Para sa Ikauunlad ng Katutubong Agham at Teknolohiya (SIKAT), for example, was identified because of their significant experience in community-based coastal resource management and in community-based disaster risk management.