Philippines Flagship Initiative

The humanitarian community in the Philippines, along with three other country teams (Colombia, Niger, and South Sudan), will play a vital role in enhancing the humanitarian system from their unique vantage points to support government response efforts. This three-year flagship initiative, referred to as the "Enhancing Resilient Communities (ERC)”, for which the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) provides the secretariat, will leverage the extensive expertise of Filipino institutions and organizations in addressing the transformation of the humanitarian system. Most significantly, this initiative presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between the humanitarian and development sectors, breaking down the barriers created by a limited aid structure.

Communities as first responders are expected to be part of the decision-making process and not just the subject of quick-needs assessment. The ERC Flagship Initiative is also a unique opportunity to build alliances and reenergize coalitions to learn from each other and set a common sense of purpose.