The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Philippines have joined hands to boost efforts to assist vulnerable Filipino communities.
DHSUD and IOM-Philippines signed a cooperation agreement on Oct. 28 that means to boost their partnership in helping citizens in areas struck by natural or man-made calamities.
Under the pact, which was finalized in coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, IOM-Philippines will share its expertise in enhancing the country’s Post-Disaster, Early Recovery Shelter Framework.
The signing of the agreement, organized by DHSUD’s Public Housing and Settlement Service (PHSS), was held in conjunction with DHSUD’s celebration of National Shelter Month in October.
No less than Housing Sec. Eduardo Del Rosario led the signing of the agreement, together with IOM-Philippines Chief of Mission Kristin Dadey, at the Central Office board room. Joining the housing czar were Assistant Sec. Avelino Tolentino III and PHSS OIC-Director Rowena Dineros.
In his message, Del Rosario emphasized the importance of cementing solid partnerships with international organizations in enhancing the Philippines’s disaster-preparedness programs especially as the country is frequented by typhoons and is at risk of natural calamities such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
Such a cooperation pact is likewise significant amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the impacts of climate change.
The IOM-Philippines commits to provide capacity building support to DHSUD in enhancing government programs meant to safeguard vulnerable communities against natural or man-made disasters. It will likewise carry out training and assist in developing local shelter plans of LGUs nationwide that integrate the Shelter Framework.
The two agencies agreed to enhance information exchange, hold constant dialogues and formal consultations, and jointly monitor the progress of their shared programs.
“The signing of this cooperation agreement between our agency, the DHSUD, and the IOM is a hallmark occasion especially during National Shelter Month. It cements the commitment to promote the post–disaster recovery policy of the country as a guide for the continuous improvement of the Philippines’ capacity to ensure full recovery of households and communities after environmental hazards,” Del Rosario said.
He also expressed optimism on sealing future collaborations with IOM-Philippines, particularly in promoting a whole-of-nation approach in nation-building. (DHSUD) – jlo
