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Message from OCHA Philippines

Dear colleagues and partners,

The United Nations, the Government and the NGO community have historically shared a robust and stable partnership in the Philippines, a fundamental key to the success of our operations.

In the days following Typhoon Bopha (Pablo), I observed impressive teamwork and communication between the first responders and the humanitarian community and this is evidence of the power of a collaborative response. We can achieve more, deliver faster and improve standards of assistance together as the humanitarian community rather than as individual agencies. The UNOCHA Philippines office has built on these alliances by encouraging regional and provincial coordination and planning networks. It has also integrated innovation and humanitarian principles into the architecture of preparedness capabilities and response systems.

As the Typhoon Bopha response evolves into a sustainable development strategy, we must continuously evaluate and improve the efficiency and quality of our services to ensure a system which can protect and provide for the most vulnerable. To do this, humanitarian actors must have the capacity to plan efficiently, which requires investment in information sharing and strong local connections. This handbook continues UNOCHA’s efforts to strengthen linkages between its partners. We thank our partners for their support in creating this handbook and in helping the people of the Philippines safeguard against future disasters and build stronger communities.

Mr. David Carden Head of Office, UNOCHA Philippines