Humanitarians in Action: Get to know Rey, one of our ACCESS team members!

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As we commemorate World Humanitarian Day 2024, we take a moment to reflect on the stories of those who dedicate their lives to serving others in times of crisis. One such individual is Rey, a field officer for the ACCESS Project funded by the EU Humanitarian Aid. Rey’s journey from the typhoon-ravaged lands of Leyte to the complex humanitarian crises in Maguindanao is a testament to the resilience and compassion that define true humanitarian work.

Through his experiences, Rey has witnessed the harsh realities of displacement and struggle, yet he remains steadfast in his commitment to helping others. His story not only highlights the challenges faced by humanitarians but also underscores the hope for a future where communities are empowered to overcome adversity on their own. Let’s delve into Rey’s motivations, his reflections on the risks of the work, and his vision for a world where humanitarian assistance is no longer a necessity.

In photo: Rey interviews affected families for beneficiary profiling. Photo by Abdul-Alim Talusob for Action Against Hunger

 

What was the defining moment that inspired you to choose this path?
I came from Leyte, a place known for its typhoons, displacements, and deprivations. Later, as a volunteer worker in Maguindanao, I witnessed an evacuation like no other. I never imagined that an entire town could be displaced. A population was squeezed into a few square meters of space in a school that served as an evacuation site. I saw, heard, and smelled what it means to be a bakwit on a new level. I realized that a bakwit is a living person, and I felt that I must and should be there for them. The situation had to change. This is how the path chose me.

What motivates you to continue being a humanitarian worker?
Humanitarian work is not really a comforting walk in the park. Sometimes, we also need to run. From that first evacuation center, I was brought to other, more complex, and more complicated humanitarian crises. I stayed. I don’t really know why. But here, in the drive to respond to lives interrupted or to empower people to change their situation, there are joys and contentment. There are also sorrows and learning. Perhaps it is this mix that creates the energy to continue and to stay.

How do you reconcile the risks with your commitment to helping others?
Working in conflict and disaster environments has inherent dangers and risks. Humanitarian work involves calculated risks. Action Against Hunger also fosters a work culture of safety at all levels of the work we do, in any environment we are working in. This work culture contributes to me being more conscious and giving priority to working safely.

What are you most proud of?
What I am most proud of as a humanitarian worker is being with people and becoming a part of their journey. But what makes me really proud of the work I do is when people become active participants themselves, engaging on their own, making the work that I do just the catalyst. I know I am effective when people recognize their own strength and value through the work we do together. I am also most proud when my tasks and assignments contribute positively to my team and organization.

What would you say to fellow humanitarian workers facing harsh conditions?
To my humanitarian brothers and sisters, working in insecure conditions and environments, bringing life-saving assistance and continuing to do so despite the risks and dangers, your inspired lives and example will always be the light and warmth we all need in our shared work. Stay safe.

What is your hope for the future?
In continuing to engage with and empower people and communities, I hope that the kind of humanitarian work I do now will one day be rendered unnecessary. The future should have no need for humanitarian work facilitated by others. I hope that in the future, people and communities will have the skills, knowledge, and resources to respond to the challenges they face on their own. I hope.

Rey is one of the Field Officers of our ACCESS Project funded by the European Union Humanitarian Aid.

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Humanitarians in Action: Get to know Sittie, one of our ACCESS team members!

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This World Humanitarian Day, we spotlight Sittie, a remarkable field officer making a profound impact in the Bangsamoro region. Inspired by a family deeply involved in community development and guided by her faith, Sittie has dedicated her life to helping others, particularly in promoting gender equality and empowering vulnerable communities. Her commitment to humanitarian work is unwavering, despite the challenges and risks she faces daily. Sittie’s efforts, especially in supporting women and girls, exemplify the true spirit of humanitarianism—offering hope and creating lasting change in even the most challenging environments.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the vital role that humanitarian workers play in protecting human dignity and advancing social justice. Through her work, Sittie continues to be a beacon of hope, bridging the gap between communities and the support they need to thrive.

What was the defining moment that inspired you to choose this path?

I grew up in a family that has always been committed to helping others. My parents were well-known for their involvement in community development, especially in resolving family issues. My father is a leader in a large organization.

My upbringing shaped my perspective on helping people and the community. The spirit of volunteerism is integral to our faith as Muslims. It brings me joy to engage with women, youth, and men in the community, orienting them about their rights and roles within both the community and their own families. This work promotes gender equality and sensitivity in all aspects.

What motivates you to continue being a humanitarian worker?

My motivation to continue being a humanitarian worker comes from my passion, and the values and best practices of my family in helping people and communities. It makes me happy when vulnerable individuals uplift their lives and are empowered to face challenges.

 

How do you reconcile the risks with your commitment to helping others?

I would first assess the situation carefully, understanding the risks and the context of the community I am working with. My priority is to ensure that I am not putting myself or others, especially the community, in unnecessary danger. I believe in strong coordination with LGUs and the community to ensure our safety. My goal is to promote my advocacy through my work with the organization while ensuring that I don’t make promises I can’t keep to the community.

What are you most proud of?

I am very proud to be a humanitarian worker. Being appreciated by the community, especially women and girls, is a significant achievement for me. Through my work, I have been able to influence people to respect women’s and girls’ rights. Helping survivors of gender-based violence access support and services and achieve justice is my source of happiness. I am also proud to be a bridge between the government and the community, serving as a change agent.

What would you say to fellow humanitarian workers facing harsh conditions?

Stay safe, and remember to take care of your health, both mentally and physically. Hold on to the reasons we started this work—helping vulnerable communities. By ensuring your safety, you are also ensuring that no vulnerable communities are left behind.

What is your hope for the future?

As a woman of Bangsamoro, I hope to empower communities to achieve lasting peace in our region through awareness. I aim to influence duty-bearers to fulfill their mandate to serve and protect the rights of the people.

 

Sittie is one of the Field Officers of our ACCESS Project funded by the European Union Humanitarian Aid.

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From Crisis to Care: The Role of Mental Health Support After A Disaster

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“How are you feeling today?” Eva Tubianosa asks an elderly lady in her village. The residents of Barangay Magsaysay, a quiet town in Nabunturan, Davao del Oro suffered the brunt of the heavy rain that brought landslides which rushed down from the neighboring mountains to the valley ─ covering homes, devastating roads, and the surrounding agriculture.

Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

Mindanao grappled with the aftermath of relentless floods and landslides during the first quarter of 2024, affecting nearly 590,000 people and displacing more than 95,000 people in the province of Davao de Oro alone. Within the next few days, Action Against Hunger teams were on the ground to provide immediate humanitarian aid through cash assistance, WASH support, and health services.

Eva is no stranger to helping her community. “I work as a Barangay Health Worker at our center, assisting the sick by releasing basic medicines to those in need,” says 47-year old Eva. She has been volunteering and supporting the health initiatives of Barangay Magsaysay for the past 14 years.

In photo: Barangay Health Workers Eva Tubianosa, 47, Maria Fe Bastasa, 48, provide basic health sevices to the residents of Barangay Magsaysay, Nabunturan. They were also one of the first emergency responders during the recent flooding and landslides that hit their village in February 2024. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

Together with fellow volunteer Maria Fe Bastasa, 48, they were the first to respond in their area after the disaster. Heavy rains and floods forced the residents of Magsaysay to evacuate to higher ground until it was safe to return to their homes. Both Eva and Maria Fe knew that this created a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of the members of their community.

Hunger, conflict, and natural disasters can have a huge impact on someone’s well-being. The day-in and day-out distress, the fear of hunger, of death, of losing your family─ it all builds up and devastates those affected. If unaddressed, it can be overwhelming and can leave long-term emotional scars, that might affect productivity and the quality of life.

In the weeks following the flooding, Eva and Maria Fe participated in a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) training session organized by Action Against Hunger in coordination with the Davao de Oro Provincial Social Welfare & Development Office and Provincial Health Office.

In photo: Participants of the MHPSS Training Session do an exercise lead by Aries Burgonio, Field Officer for Action Against Hunger’s SIDA-funded Mindanao Flooding Emergency Response.

First responders including health workers, barangay health workers and social workers attended the three-day training session that was held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. “We received essential training in assessing our area, especially for those who were affected by the recent floods. We were taught how to check on the evacuees’ well-being, and how they can cope with their emotions each time there is a calamity,” Eva adds. The MHPSS training also included guidance on how to conduct basic psychosocial support sessions based on psychological first-aid principles to be rolled out in the communities.

In photo: Participants of the MHPSS Training Session do an exercise lead by Aries Burgonio, Field Officer for Action Against Hunger’s SIDA-funded Mindanao Flooding Emergency

As volunteers, Eva and Maria Fe are diligent as they continue to serve their community by going door-to-door and visiting the affected families to check on their well-being, and refer cases when needed They also expressed an appreciation for the knowledge they gained from the gender and protection orientation from Action Against Hunger.

In photo: An elderly resident of Barangay Magsaysay, Nabunturan replies to a series of questions made specifically to assess the mental state of each resident in the area who was directly affected by the recent floods in Davao, Mindanao. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

With the information Eva collected from her home visits, the affected families were invited to join a PSS session conducted by Action Against Hunger where different gender and age-sensitive coping mechanisms were provided. The activities included proper breathing exercises, de-stressing, and grounding techniques. The trained health volunteers such as Eva and Maria Fe, were trained on using a known Mental Health and Well-being Individual Assessment tool widely used to measure an individual’s well-being and quality of life. From the assessment, they will then refer a person with a low well-being score to have focused mental health services at pre-identified referral points.

In photo: Eva and Maria Fe diligently provide mental health support to residents of Barangay Magsaysay who were affected by the recent floods by going through a questionnaire developed by Action Against Hunger. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

Depending on the need, these identified cases will be referred to health facilities that will provide them with further counseling or other necessary assistance. At the same time, Action Against Hunger provides cash support to cover their travel costs, payment for professional fees, and possible medication expenses.

Eva walks with fellow volunteer Maria Fe Bastasa, 48, in their community in Nabunturan to help assess households of low-income families who might be experiencing mental health issues or trauma brought about by the recent floods in their area. They were trained by Action Against Hunger in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), which included a series of community-based Psychosocial Support Sessions, made possible by funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

“I am happy to be of service to others, it is fulfilling to make a difference in other people’s lives, no matter how small it is,” Eva smiles.

With the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), we have been working to provide comprehensive mental health, and psychosocial support services for those affected by flooding and landslides in Davao de Oro, prioritizing women, children & their families, indigenous groups, and those in evacuation centers facing prolonged displacement.

Aside from the mental health support, Action Against Hunger’s SIDA-funded Mindanao Flooding Emergency Response is also providing support to pregnant women to avail specialized consultation and safe delivery services, cash assistance, and emergency WASH services such as WASH kits and rehabilitation of sanitation and hygiene facilities in the municipalities of Maco, Mawab, and New Bataan.

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Multi-purpose Cash Assistance: A Respite for a Displaced Family

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“I can still remember it clearly,” says Lyka, 38, as she reflects on the night of February 6, 2024. “The rain wouldn’t stop, and at 7:26 pm, we heard a loud crash. The massive landslide came tumbling down, burying our homes in rocks and mud.”

The relentless rains wreaked havoc in the mining town of Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro, displacing over 1,250 families. Lyka’s husband, Ronald, 58, worked as a pipeman and had just bought an electric motorcycle earlier that day—only for it to be swept away a few hours later by the surging waters. It was meant to be an additional source of income and to take the family to church every Sunday.

Lyka’s family and fellow Masara residents temporarily stay in tents provided by the local government and the Swiss Red Cross at a resettlement site in Maco. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

“Just like that, everything was gone—our home, all our belongings,” Lyka recalls. The family evacuated to a nearby school before moving to a tent in a valley in Maco. This temporary shelter became a refuge for flood and landslide victims, offering a place to regroup and start over.

In photo: Lyka (far left) and Ronald (far right) inside the financial service provider where they will receive the multi-purpose cash assistance from USAID-BHA through Action Against Hunger. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger.

“During those first few days after the landslide, the USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance through Action Against Hunger, provided essential hygiene kits that were a great help to my family,” Lyka adds. Adjusting to life in a tent, surrounded by hundreds of others under the blazing sun, was tough, but she remains grateful that they are alive and safe.

Lyka’s youngest daughter, just six years old, still struggles with the trauma of that night, but Lyka reassures her that with time, things will get better, and there is hope for their lives to return to normal.

In photo: Action Against Hunger staff counts the cash assistance before handing it over to Lyka. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger.

“We learned about USAID-BHA’s Multi-purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) through Action Against Hunger’s emergency response. They asked about our situation. We were so relieved when we found out that we would be one of the families who will receive the assistance,” Lyka explains. The cash assistance aims to meet the immediate food and basic needs of the most vulnerable households affected by floods and landslides in Davao de Oro. Families like Lyka’s were asked to visit a nearby payout center in town, where they received Php 10,120.00. The United States Government had provided nearly P70 million in humanitarian aid to support communities affected by severe flooding and landslides in Mindanao.

Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger.

“I plan to buy what we need most—food for my family, basic goods like rice, fish, fruits, and vegetables. We are so thankful for organizations like Action Against Hunger and USAID who continue to support us. We hope that our community in Barangay Masara can recover through other livelihood opportunities and that the government will relocate us to a safer place,” Lyka says with a hopeful smile.

Her husband is back at work, and the family remains optimistic about the future. They hold on to the hope that their children can complete their education.

In photo: Lyka and her husband ride a tricycle going to the market after receiving the cash assistance. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

 

On market day, Lyka and Ronald travel to the nearest public market by tricycle to make their purchases. They greet a fish vendor and choose the freshest catch to bring back to their children, their hands filled with bags of fruits and vegetables.

In photo: Lyka and Roland buy fresh produce from the nearby market. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger.

 

In photo: After receiving the cash assistance, Lyka buys fish from the nearby market. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger.


With the support of the American People through funding of the United States Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), Action Against Hunger’s Mindanao Flooding Emergency Response has reached around 7,500 people in the Province of Davao de Oro with emergency assistance following the devastating floods and landslides in late February 2024.

Written by Shirin Bhandari, edited by Joyce Sandajan Read more

Life After Loss: A Father’s Promise to His Daughters

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“Say a prayer for your mama and ate (older sister),” Orlando Malacaste, 58, whispers to his two younger daughters. They stand in front of the graves of their mother and eldest sister, located in a Muslim Cemetery in Pandapan, Tagum City. They traveled from the municipality of Maco to honor the memory of their lost loved ones.

Orlando and his daughters have come to pay their respects to his wife and eldest daughter who passed away due to the landslide in Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger.

On February 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM, a rain-induced landslide struck the mining village of Barangay Masara, in the municipality of Maco, Davao de Oro, killing 98 people and displacing more than 2,400 families. “After I came home from work, we knew something was wrong. It was raining continuously, and we heard a loud crashing sound, even louder than thunder. My wife called out to our eldest daughter Shaira, 17, to bring her youngest sister to safety. By the time I looked back, they were all gone,” recalls Orlando. He and his middle child, Shaina Mae, 8, narrowly escaped.

On February 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM, a rain-induced landslide hit the mining village of Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro, killing 96 people and displacing over 1,250 families. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

After 60 hours, rescuers found his 3-year-old daughter Sheena, who survived being buried in the mud and rubble. “She is our little miracle,” adds Orlando. Rescuers carried Sheena, wrapped her in an emergency blanket, and provided lifesaving aid before bringing her to the hospital.

“I lost my wife and 17-year-old daughter Shaira to the landslide. Shaira was about to finish high school. She wanted to become a teacher,” Orlando says with deep sadness in his voice. “But luck was not on her side,” he adds.

In the aftermath of the landslide, houses and vehicles were wrecked. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

Heavy rain throughout Mindanao was intense during the first quarter of 2024, triggering numerous landslides and flooding, destroying homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. Over 590,000 people in Davao de Oro alone were affected, with around 95,000 displaced to emergency shelters across several municipalities in the province. Landslides are a recurrent risk across the Davao region due to the mountainous terrain. Masara is near Mt. Leonard Kniaseff, a stratovolcano that is the source of pyroclastic soil in Davao de Oro. When aggravated by extreme weather disturbances, this can be extremely hazardous to the exposed population.

In the first few days of the disaster, Action Against Hunger, with funding support from the United States Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, provided water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) kits to families in the municipalities of Monkayo, Montevista, New Bataan, Mawab, and Maco, which were heavily affected by the flood. Within the next six months, emergency response efforts included rehabilitating damaged water supply facilities and providing multi-purpose cash assistance (MPCA). The beneficiaries also attended hygiene promotion sessions during the WASH kit distributions.

Orlando’s family and fellow Masara residents temporarily stay in tents provided by the local government and the Swiss Red Cross at a resettlement site in Maco. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

In photo: Orlando and his daughters walking towards their tent. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

Orlando’s family and fellow Masara residents temporarily stay in tents provided by the local government and the Swiss Red Cross at a resettlement site in Maco. Although still mourning the loss of his wife and daughter, Orlando now must deal with the reality of their situation. He used to work as a security guard, but his workplace was also affected by the recent disaster. Left with no house, no belongings, and no source of income, he worries about how he will provide for his remaining children and afford to send them to school in Tagum City.

Given the unfortunate circumstances, Orlando was one of the beneficiaries to receive 10,120 pesos through the MPCA. The assistance aims to cover food supply and other basic daily needs while they slowly rebuild their lives.

In photo: Action Against Hunger staff hands over the cash assistance to one of the beneficiaries of the MPCA. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

For Orlando, his children’s education is a priority. He plans to use a large portion of the money to support his two girls when they go to school in July. Shaina and little Sheena will be staying with their aunt in Tagum. Orlando will send the money to his sister, which he says should be enough to cover essentials like food, water, and school supplies. “During the week, my children stay with their relatives in Tagum so they can continue their schooling. Sheena will be starting daycare soon. The cash assistance from Action Against Hunger and USAID has been a tremendous help to us,” Orlando explains.

In photo: Inside their tent, Orlando fixes one of his daughters’ hair while the two girls play with each other. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

 

“Even though we have lost our home and belongings, my daughters must continue their education. I just want them to finish their studies,” he adds. Before the tragedy, Orlando would fetch his daughters from Tagum so that they could spend time as a family on the weekends. After losing two of their family members, he plans to continue this routine once the school year starts.

 

In photo: Shaina Mae and Sheena playing in the open area of the resettlement camp in Maco. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

In photo: Action Against Hunger staff accompany Shaina Mae and Sheena as they buy snacks in the neighborhood sari-sari or sundry store. Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger

While they wait for the government’s plans for their relocation, they make the most out of their tent. In one corner is a special area with a small paper box containing a few toys so his daughters can play and enjoy their time together. Orlando knows their situation is difficult, but after everything they’ve been through, what matters most is that they are safe and have each other.

Orlando is optimistic about returning to work as a security guard. “Seeing my girls alive and well gives me hope. Life goes on. I need to be strong for them,” he shares.

Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger.

 

 

With the support of the American People through funding of the United States Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), Action Against Hunger’s Mindanao Flooding Emergency Response has reached around 7,500 people in the Province of Davao de Oro with emergency assistance following the devastating floods and landslides towards the end of February 2024.

Written by Shirin Bhandari; edited by Joyce Sandajan


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Empowering Remote Villages with Accessible Water

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MABINI, DAVAO DE ORO ─ “We had to cross the mountain to fetch water,” Michelle Esperanza, 36, recalls. The rough terrain and muddy dirt paths made it hard for the residents of the remote mining town of Sitio Mascareg, in the community of Barangay Anitapan to collect water for drinking, bathing, and usage for their daily chores.

Jay-ar and Michelle Michelle gather firewood for cooking in Sitio Mascareg, Barangay Anitapan, Mabini, Davao de Oro. Access to safe and potable water has been a pressing issue in their village. (Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger)

Getting clean water was already a chore for some families in Mascareg. But this became a bigger struggle in the first quarter of 2024 after Davao de Oro experienced a succession of rains and floods that triggered landslides across the hilly area. This destroyed homes and roads and cut off families like Michelle’s from their water source. “We were asked to evacuate our homes in February 2024. The heavy rains caused landslides in the surrounding areas, destroying most of the roads that lead up here,” says Michelle.

The remote geographical location of Sitio Mascareg offers limited livelihood opportunities for its residents. Jay-ar works as a part-time electrician while Michelle is tasked with the responsibilities of tending to their home and children. (Photo by Shirin Bhandari for Action Against Hunger)

Whenever it rains hard, it makes the town equally vulnerable. Aside from restricting their movement to fetch water, flooding destroys and contaminates water sources. Without clean water, illnesses like diarrhea, parasites, and chronic intestinal inflammation are common. It also prevents children from absorbing key nutrients and makes them more susceptible to malnutrition and other health issues. This was a main concern for Michelle and her husband having children themselves.

In the initial days of the flood’s aftermath, affected families needed basic supplies such as food and clean water. With the support of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), they received emergency aid on water, sanitation, and hygiene through the ACCESS project. Water kits which contained basic hygiene items, jerry cans, and water purification tablets to name a few, were also provided.

Action Against Hunger Philippines was the first to respond after the heavy rains flooded the Davao region. Michelle’s family received cash for food and water assistance made possible by funding from ECHO.  (Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger)

Aside from WASH support, families in Anitapan that were affected by the flood also received multi-purpose cash assistance thanks to the funding support of ECHO. Families who lost their livelihoods like Michelle’s used the cash assistance to buy basic supplies while they looked for other means to provide for their families. “The cash provided by Action Against Hunger and ECHO allowed me to buy the essentials, like rice, food, and medicine. There are not enough livelihood opportunities in our area, so this was a great help to all of us,” Michelle smiles.

Emergency response efforts do not stop there. More than providing immediate life-saving aid at the onset of the disaster, we remained in close coordination with the province of Davao De Oro in continuously assessing the situation of the flood-affected areas in the municipalities of Mabini, Mawab, Maco, Nabunturan, and its displaced communities. Sitio Mascareg was one of those in dire need of immediate access to safe water and improved WASH facilities.

Action Against Hunger Philippines assessed the situation of Sitio Mascareg and worked tirelessly to provide potable and accessible water to the community. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

It has been life-changing, we do not have to go far or climb steep hills just to wash our clothes. Now we can have safe water to drink, cook with, and clean ourselves and our homes,”

Action Against Hunger’s ACCESS team has since installed a water pump facility adjacent to the barangay hall and community basketball court of Sitio Mascareg. Family members arrive with blue water containers to fill up. Getting water is no longer an ordeal since they can now fill their buckets with potable water just a few steps away from their homes.

“I do not have to cross mountains to fetch water, our town is overjoyed. We are thankful that Action Against Hunger continues to check on us. It has been life-changing, we do not have to go far or climb steep hills just to wash our clothes. Now we can have safe water to drink, cook, and clean ourselves and our homes,” Michelle smiles.

Over 150 families in Anitapan, including Michelle’s will now have easier and safer access to clean water with the rehabilitated water system that came with a newly installed solar light.

Now, Michelle and other residents arrive with their blue water containers just a few steps away from their homes and have an abundant supply of potable water. Photo by Mae Tanagon for Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger aims to ensure that every Filipino has access to clean water, enabling them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. With the unwavering support of ECHO and our ACCESS partners, we are committed to transforming communities, enhancing resilience, and creating a brighter, healthier future for all.

The Mindanao Flooding Emergency Response is made possible through the ACCESS Project with the funding support of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and implementation of consortium members Action Against Hunger, CARE Philippines, Humanity & Inclusion (HI), and Save the Children together with local partners from ACCORD Incorporated, Community Organizers Multiversity, Integrated Mindanaoans Association for Natives, Inc. (IMAN), Leading Individuals to Flourish and Thrive Inc. (LIFT), Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress, Inc. (MOSEP), Notre Dame of Jolo College, and National Rural Women Coalition (PKKK).

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From Hazard to Harvest: Community Garden Sparks Change in Kapatagan

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MUNICIPALITY OF KAPATAGAN, LANAO DEL SUR —Vulnerable families living in a multi-hazard community in Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur start to earn through its community garden supported by Action Against Hunger.

The community in Kapatagan is beaming with pride as they reap the rewards of their hard work, harvesting organic and fresh produce from their thriving community garden. Not only are they enjoying the fruits of their labor, but they are also sharing the bounty by selling these nutritious goods to their neighbors and nearby communities.

Photo by Kit de Galicia for Action Against Hunger

The fresh produce is selling well according to Noraima, a mother and iPrepared resilient livelihood beneficiary. “Just this week, we have harvested 170 kilos of cucumber sold for thirty pesos [51 American cents] per kilo. We also sold our okra and eggplant. Sometimes, the vegetables won’t even reach the market as neighbors would already come to the garden to buy them,” she shares.

With the funding support of the United States Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared project integrates community gardens for families prone to disaster to learn the value of preparedness through food security and resilient livelihoods.

Community orientation about the Climate Resilient Farm Schools (CRFS).

Barangay Bakikis is one of the communities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It is often affected by disasters such as flooding and landslides, as it is surrounded by a river. It is also subject displacement due to local conflicts.

The community garden in Barangay Bakikis is just one of the six community gardens in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Sur supported by the project. These are the outcomes of the Climate Resilient Field School (CRFS) iPrepared training sessions introducing alternative tools and approaches compared to regular gardening.

“The integration of food security and resilient livelihoods on disaster preparedness ensures vulnerable families prone to the disaster have access to food and protection of its livelihood during and immediately after an emergency, empowering them to recover more effectively and build resilience against future disasters,” says Action Against Hunger’s Food Security and Livelihood Project Officer for iPrepared, Renee Galeos.

 

In the short time that they’ve been involved in the field school, Noraima is already seeing the difference in their finances.

“The extra income is a great help to our family─for our daily expenses and allowance for my children. It’s our way of saving for the rainy days,” says Noraima.

The Inclusive Disaster Preparedness for Local Resilience in Areas at High Risk of Natural and Human-Induced Hazards in BARMM, Mindanao is made possible with the support of the American people through the funding of USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance.

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Mental Health Support for Distressed Communities in BARMM

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Our dedicated team recently traveled to Barangay Kabasalan, a remote area in the Municipality of Ligawasan, in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The community, often impacted by flooding and displacement, is one of the covered areas of our ACCESS Project through the European Union Humanitarian Aid’s funding.

Elevated wooden house near the fields with low flooding.

When heavy rains occur, Barangay Kabasalan experiences flooding.

“Thank you so much, within that moment you made us happy.”

In times of emergencies, mental health support becomes crucial. Despite the flooding, our unwavering commitment to aiding the most at-risk individuals helped bring a ray of hope and relief. Our ACCESS team conducted Mental Health and Psychosocial Support sessions to empower women, men, boys, and girls in the community facing these ongoing challenges.

“Maraming salamat po, sa maikling panahon ay napasaya niyo po kami, (thank you so much, within that moment you made us happy),” shares one of the females during the protection and gender-based violence orientation of the MHPSS session.

Photos by Ruchel Manuel and Nihada Sultan-Sambas for Action Against Hunger.

ACCESS is a consortium project funded by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and implemented by Action Against Hunger Philippines, CARE Philippines, Humanity & Inclusion – Philippines, and Save the Children Philippines, together with local partners from ACCORD Incorporated, Community Organizers Multiversity (COM), Integrated Mindanaons Association for Natives (IMAN), Leading Individuals to Flourish and Thrive (LIFT), Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress, Inc. (MOSEP), Notre Dame of Jolo College, and National Rural Women Coalition (PKKK).

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Building Resilience: Datu Piang’s Community-Wide Disaster Preparedness Drill

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A community emergency drill is not just a test—it empowers conflict-stricken and disaster-prone communities to be more resilient.
 

Residents from vulnerable communities in Datu Piang, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao test their knowledge, attitude, and practices on disaster preparedness during the typhoon preparedness community-wide drill held last May 8, 2024.

Residents from vulnerable communities in Datu Piang, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao test their knowledge, attitude, and practices on disaster preparedness during the typhoon preparedness community-wide drill held last May 8. (Photo by Maryann Zamora for Action Against Hunger)

 
“It is our first time to experience a drill as big as this wherein over 300 people participated in and with support from different state agencies like the Bureau of Fire, Social Welfare and Development and Disaster Risk Reduction Council from the province and municipal level. This drill is important to us, knowing how to improve and prepare better when another disaster might happen to us,” says barangay captain Manny Kuda.

In photo: Participants do a simulation of a rescue operation during the community drill (Photo by Maryann Zamora for Action Against Hunger)

The community drill is the capstone of a comprehensive training series under the iPrepared Project, covering everything from First Aid to Water Search and Rescue. This is part of a larger effort to integrate disaster preparedness into local plans, ensuring resilience from the ground up while working closely and directly with communities, local government units, and other key partners in BARMM.
 
Funded by the American people through USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance and implemented by Action Against Hunger, this initiative isn’t just about responding to disasters. It’s about empowering communities to stand strong in the face of adversity.
Written by Maryann Zamora

Empowering Local Responders: Water Search and Rescue Training in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur

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Several community responders took part in a Water Search and Rescue training sessions organized by Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared Project from April 22 to May 5, 2024.

Several community responders took part in a Water Search and Rescue training sessions organized by Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared Project from April 22 to May 5. In photo: Participants get ready to get into the water as part of the training. (Photo by Chaz Mabunga for Action Against Hunger)

The goal is to equip community responders from seven municipalities in Maguindanao del Sur and Lanao del Sur with the skills needed to handle floods and typhoons confidently.

The training session covered water and flood awareness and quick flood response techniques.

Several community responders took part in a Water Search and Rescue training sessions organized by Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared Project from April 22 to May 5. In photo: Participants do one of the exercises during the session. (Photo by Chaz Mabunga for Action Against Hunger)

Several community responders took part in a Water Search and Rescue training sessions organized by Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared Project from April 22 to May 5. In photo: Participants do a simulation of a rescue mission during the training. (Photo by Chaz Mabunga for Action Against Hunger)

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) faces frequent flooding due to its proximity to bodies of water like the Rio Grande de Mindanao and Liguasan Marsh. iPrepared aims to boost disaster readiness in the region, emphasizing inclusivity, gender equality, and community partnerships.

Several community responders took part in a Water Search and Rescue training sessions organized by Action Against Hunger’s iPrepared Project from April 22 to May 5. In photo: One of the participating responders preparing to get in the water as part of the rescue exercise. (Photo by Chaz Mabunga for Action Against Hunger)

With the support of the American people through USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, iPrepared empowers local responders to take charge in tackling climate and disaster challenges.


Written by Maryann Zamora

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