Philippines - Humanitarian Assistance for Conflict-Affected and Displaced People – ACF 2015

March 2015 - Despite a peace agreement signed in October 2012 between the government and separatist rebels protracted conflict continues on Mindanao Island in the Philippines where over 150 000 people have died since fighting began in the late 1960s. The condition of people living in the conflict-affected areas of Mindanao remains difficult. This situation was further exacerbated in September 2013 when fighting broke out in Zamboanga City between rebel factions and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The conflict displaced more than 120 000 people during its height left over 200 dead and as many as 10 000 homes destroyed. Despite a quick end to hostilities approximately 66 000 people remain displaced in Zamboanga City. With DFATD’s support Action Against Hunger (ACF) is helping to improve the nutritional and emergency food status of populations displaced by the conflict in Zamboanga City. Project activities include: (1) the screening and treating of severe acute malnutrition of 2 916 displaced children between 6 – 59 months; (2) providing training and counseling in infant and young child feeding practices to 1 470 displaced mothers and fathers; and (3) providing cash grants to meet the emergency food and nutrition needs of 550 families with severely acute malnourished children.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) increased access to services and inputs to identify treat and prevent malnutrition; and (2) increased income to improve access to diverse types of nutritious foods. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.