Introduction
In April 2013 the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) in collaboration with the Office for Civil Defense hosted a review of the humanitarian response to Typhoon Bopha/Pablo. During these workshops stakeholders highlighted the need for best practices in information management and communications channels towards creating durable response and preparedness mechanisms. To address the feedback from the workshops, OCHA delivered a comprehensive cluster approach, assessment and information management training program to reinforce critical lessons learned by building technical skills, encouraging dialogue and establishing consistent methodologies amongst government and NGO partners.
The Humanitarian Handbook is an addendum to the workshops as a practical guide to the context and key players in Typhoon Bopha/Pablo-affected areas. The handbook was developed collaboratively with OCHA’s partners and is designed to facilitate local partnerships by providing information on the provincial environment, including Government agencies and NGOs and projects by geographical and thematic area.
We sincerely hope this handbook will assist government and NGO partners to engage together in future responses to best assist their colleagues in need.