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.
https://actionagainsthunger.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Sittie-1-scaled-e1724139188331.jpg17151873Adminhttps://actionagainsthunger.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logo_text_orig.pngAdmin2024-08-20 06:42:402024-09-11 14:31:39Humanitarians in Action: Get to know Sittie, one of our ACCESS team members!
“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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“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
Written by Shirin Bhandari, edited by Joyce Sandajan Read more
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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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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.
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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.
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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The Philippines is one of the countries experiencing the impacts of El Niño, resulting in agricultural damage and water shortages across multiple provinces. Datu Piang in Maguindanao del Sur faces extreme heat conditions, with temperatures reaching hazardous levels for both agriculture and residents. In addition to the challenges El Niño poses, the residents also grapple with repeated displacement due to local conflict, further exacerbating their struggles. Since late 2023, our teams have been monitoring the impact of El Niño in the areas where we work.
Since late 2023, Action Against Hunger has been monitoring the impact of El Niño by working closely with the communities, local government units, local and national agencies, and other stakeholders.
El Niño is a climate pattern that describes the unusual warming of surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. It typically occurs every few years and can affect weather patterns globally, leading to various climate changes such as increased rainfall in some areas and droughts in others.
This has affected more than 28,000 people according to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Datu Piang. Crop failures have left four out of sixteen barangays with no income, hitting farmers and fisherfolks the hardest. An estimated 180 hectares of corn have been destroyed, amounting to a loss of approximately 1.6 million pesos. Additionally, groundwater levels in barangays along the Rio Grande de Mindanao River have dropped by 10 to 11 feet, equivalent to the height of a one-story building.
In photo: Action Against Hunger staff monitors the water level of local rivers in our areas of interventions.
The extreme conditions have forced farmers to halt the production of corn, rice, and vegetables due to the rapid depletion of water in creeks and river channels. Crops planted in late January 2024 did not survive, while those planted in late December 2023 to early January yielded only half of the expected harvest. All fishponds have also ceased operations. Because of this, many people are faced with limited livelihood opportunities and even food supplies. More than 2,000 farmers across all barangays in Datu Piang are affected. On April 29, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government declared a State of Calamity for the entire region.
218 farming families in Datu Piang receive 50kg sacks of rice after Action Against Hunger activated the rapid response mechanism of the SUPREME-BARMM project funded by the EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).
With a commitment to provide quick life-saving and inclusive emergency assistance to hazard-affected communities, Action Against Hunger, through the SUPREME-BARMM consortium project has activated a rapid response mechanism (RRM) with the support of EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid. The response includes providing food relief to support affected farmers for at least one month, or until the El Niño impact subsides and the anticipated transition to La Niña occurs between June and August. The RRM aims to strengthen the capacity of local institutions and communities to respond to emergencies, enhancing their resilience and preparedness for future incidents.
Despite the dire circumstances, the resilience and unity of the community offer a glimmer of hope. Efforts from the local government along with other humanitarian actors are vital in mitigating the crisis. Quick response efforts focused on food security and livelihood support are more crucial now than ever.
The Strengthening Resilience through Early Warning System, Enhanced Anticipatory Action, and Multi-risk Landscape Approach in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SUPREME-BARMM) Project is funded by the EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and implemented by ACCORD Incorporated, Action Against Hunger Philippines CARE, Community Organizers Multiversity, Humanity & Inclusion, Manila Observatory People’s Disaster Risk Reduction Network, Inc., Plan International, and Oxfam Pilipinas.
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Leizel, 42, used to live a quiet and humble life in Barangay Mainit Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, with her husband and children. Their small store and her husband’s income were enough to meet their daily needs. However, their simple life took a complete turn almost overnight when continuous heavy rains caused severe flooding in their community, damaging their home and belongings.
While out of town in Cagayan de Oro City, Leizel received the heartbreaking news of their home’s destruction. Upon returning, she and her family found their possessions destroyed and their home unlivable. They were subsequently relocated to an evacuation center, where they had to adapt to life with limited access to basic needs.
Life at the evacuation center was particularly challenging for Leizel and her family. Accessing water required hours of waiting, and maintaining hygiene was difficult due to the lack of necessary supplies. They often had to line up for food, eating only once or twice a day depending on the availability of supplies.
Witnessing these struggles, Action Against Hunger provided hygiene kits through the ACCESS project funded by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Operations (ECHO) immediately after their displacement. These kits included essential items such as bath soap, laundry soap, shampoo, a plastic pail, a plastic dipper, a nail cutter, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and bath towels. On an average day, these items are often taken for granted. But, in times of crisis, they were instrumental in helping Leizel’s family maintain good hygiene during this difficult time.
I am immensely grateful to Action Against Hunger and ECHO for their support and commitment to helping people in need during emergencies. The hygiene kit has made a significant difference in our lives.
“The hygiene kit was a lifeline for us, as we were struggling to maintain our hygiene while being displaced from our homes due to an emergency,” said Leizel.
In photo: Action Against Hunger Field Officer shows to the beneficiaries of Barangay Mainit the contents of the hygiene kit.
Leizel expressed her deep gratitude for the support. “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa Action Against Hunger ug sa ECHO sa ilang suporta ug pagsalig sa pagtabang sa mga nagkinahanglan panahon sa emergency. Dako kaayo ang natabang sa hygiene kit sa amoa. (I am immensely grateful to Action Against Hunger and ECHO for their support and commitment to helping people in need during emergencies. The hygiene kit has made a significant difference in our lives.)”
Evacuees in Barangay Magsaysay in Nabunturan also received hygiene kits from Action Against Hunger through the ACCESS project.
Leizel stays strong for her family as they recover from the impacts of the flooding. She found solace in the kindness and support of volunteers and fellow evacuees, who became friends through their shared adversity. “Bisan pa adunay mga kalisod sa among pagpuyo sa evacuation center apan nahimo usab kini nga nagpamatood nga adunay kasingkasing sa pagkamaloloy-on. Nakita nako ang pagkamanggihatagon ug pagkahiusa sa mga volunteers ug uban pang evacuees. (Although residing in an evacuation center has presented difficulties, it has also served as evidence of humanity’s resilience and compassion. I have observed amazing acts of generosity and solidarity from volunteers and other evacuees, despite the uncertainty and discomfort),” she shares.
Beneficiaries from Barangay Bayabas attend a hygiene promotion session before receiving their hygiene kits.
ACCESS is funded by the EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid and implemented by consortium members ACCORD Incorporated, Action Against Hunger, CARE Philippines, Community Organizers Multiversity, Humanity & Inclusion Philippines, 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, National Rural Women Coalition (PKKK), and Save the Children Philippines.
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In the face of the Philippines’ complex humanitarian challenges, characterized by hazard-induced disasters and armed conflicts, Action Against Hunger has stepped forward to address the alarming rates of gender-based violence (GBV) and Protection risks, particularly affecting women and children. The organization recognizes that this dire situation not only jeopardizes the well-being of individuals but also weakens the societal fabric, diminishing the capacity to protect the most vulnerable.
The Philippines remains one of the countries most at risk of disasters based on the World Risk Index. Within this complex humanitarian scenario, women and children are disproportionately exposed to the perils of protection risks particularly GBV. Whilst GBV persists before the onset of disasters or conflicts, the risks are intensified in crises where protection structures and mechanisms are disrupted and weakened. According to the 2022 Philippine National Health Demographic Survey (NHDS), one in five women aged 15-49 experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their husbands or intimate partners. This figure covers only those who reported and recognized what happened to them as GBV.
Instances of GBV are often underreported, leading to a prevailing misconception that such incidents are uncommon in BARMM. However, women engaged in consultations have revealed distressing experiences, including instances of sexual harassment, coerced marriages, and rape, including cases involving minors, occurring amidst displacement and within evacuation centers. Crises like the occurrence of conflicts or disasters deeply affect communities by disrupting lives, causing trauma, and limiting access to mental health services. These challenges increase vulnerability to GBV as displacement and limited access to basic services exacerbate mental health issues and may perpetuate cycles of violence. Marginalized groups bear the brunt, facing heightened risks. Many individuals express uncertainties regarding how to address or seek assistance for these issues, primarily due to fears of shame, stigma, victim-blaming, disbelief, and potential retaliation, exacerbating the already challenging landscape of mental health in these communities.
Jazmin*, a 39-year-old woman, is currently in a temporary unfinished house that serves as a temporary shelter along with three other displaced families. Jazmin expressed fear and worry over her personal security inside the house. Telling her story, Jazmin shared, “Pakagilek sa kangasilingan ta kagina dala pageletan na kabagiga. Yabu pageletan na kulambo para aden bu lending sa kaped a pamilya uman pedtulog magabi.” (there is only one room in the evacuation center and the only division we have is a mosquito net.)
“there is only one room in the evacuation center and the only division we have is a mosquito net.” – Jazmin, age 39
Another story from a displaced community is about 33-year-old Zainab* who is currently staying in an evacuation center in Maguindanao del Sur. Last December 2023, Zainab along with the people from her village was forced to leave their community indue to violent clashes involving non-state armed groups and the military. Throughout her life, Zainab has faced repeated displacement episodes, triggered by recurrent violent conflicts in her community. The persistent and violent nature of fleeing has taken a toll on her psychological and emotional well-being. For now, Zainab shares her anxiety due to the uncertainty of a safe and dignified return. “Ya nin pedtalon, kadakelan sa lekami na gagilekan pembalingan baguli sabap sa di pon gatawan kanu e kambalingan na military operation” (most of the evacuees are afraid to return to their community due to undetermined military operations). Presently, Zainab, who is in her seventh month of pregnancy, can stay in a secure environment where she can receive tailored humanitarian assistance to their needs.
“most of the evacuees are afraid to return to their community due to undetermined military operations.” – Zainab, age 33
Especially during emergencies, creating safe spaces is paramount. Action Against Hunger calls for stricter implementation of laws and adherence to guidelines advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations, especially those who are internally displaced people or at greater risk of GBV, as well as the establishment of safe spaces for women and children, pregnant lactating women, persons with disabilities, and children in humanitarian response. These spaces offer a safe space for women and vulnerable populations to access protection services and GBV referral pathways.
Action Against Hunger’s intervention in responding to GBV and VAW in the Philippines is a testament to the organization’s commitment to addressing the most pressing issues vulnerable communities face. By taking a gender-transformative approach, Action Against Hunger is not only mitigating the immediate impact of GBV but also working towards creating a safer and more resilient future for all. This exemplifies the organization’s dedication to realizing its vision for a world where hunger and violence are eradicated, and all individuals can live with dignity and safety.
*Disclaimer: The names of individuals mentioned in this article have been altered to protect their confidentiality and privacy.
https://actionagainsthunger.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_1616.png30244032Adminhttps://actionagainsthunger.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logo_text_orig.pngAdmin2024-02-20 08:56:582024-09-11 14:31:40Creating Safe Spaces: protection for women, girls, and most vulnerable populations during emergencies
Farmers affected by Typhoon Odette attended a farmer training on Good Agricultural Practices and Organic farming in the municipalities of San Benito and Burgos on the island of Siargao, Surigao del Norte last December 2022.
The training is facilitated by trainers from the Rice Specialists Training Course (RSCT). The participants from barangays Orok and Talisay learn approaches on how to rebuild their agricultural livelihoods and increase their farm yields through sustainable and safe methods.
Among other things, they learn about the importance of intercropping and how to make and apply organic fertilizers and pesticides. They also learned how to transfer their newfound knowledge to others.
After the training, they will facilitate sharing what they learned with other farmers in their communities.
Photos by Arianne Gijsenbergh for Action Against Hunger | December 2022, Siargao, Surigao del Norte
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