While already in the midst of the coronavirus crisis in the country, the Philippines is now confronted with another threat brought about by Typhoon Ambo (also known as Typhoon Vongfong), forcing thousands of people under lockdown to flee their homes in search for a safer refuge.

Faithful to its mandate to protect and uphold the rights of the internally displaced persons (IDPs), the Commission calls on relevant government authorities to ensure that IDP response is included in the risk reduction and response strategies of the national government. As the country grapples with the ongoing quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19, the Commission reiterates the government’s responsibility to provide assistance and protection to people affected by displacement, in accordance with established principles of international and domestic laws.

The current onslaught of Typhoon Ambo creates a new layer of vulnerability for IDPs who have to live in makeshift shelters where social distancing cannot be practiced. These fragile living conditions put displaced communities at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19, especially when there is no mass testing in place to monitor the health status of IDPs. Aside from the cramped shelter arrangements, IDPs also face issues of accessing clean and potable water, which is essential in the promotion of good hygiene.

The Commission expresses its gratitude to various government agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), for their continued efforts in cascading their humanitarian assistance to the IDP communities. To scale up the delivery of humanitarian support, the Commission recommends the development of an outbreak response plan in displacement sites that shall include: (1) mechanisms for self-quarantine and social distancing; and (2) health protocols for rapid identification and immediate isolation of confirmed COVID-19 cases. The Commission is also hopeful that the government will designate additional evacuation shelters in typhoon-affected areas to prevent camp congestion, and ensure strict enforcement of social distancing. IDPs must also be included in humanitarian support programming post-Typhoon Ambo, and must be assisted until they reach their durable solutions.

The Commission hopes the government’s swift action in ensuring the protection and promotion of rights of IDPs. Displaced communities must not be left during this pandemic. It is through the inclusion of vulnerable sectors in the COVID-19 response that we can truly heal as one.###