Rebuilding Zamboanga

Eleven months into recovery and reconstruction efforts after armed faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) engaged the Philippines security forces in Zamboanga on 9 September 2014, ACF International and partners continue to provide a range of essential support to complement government efforts for the 25,670 displaced people, among them 13,000 in Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Stadium and thousands more in other evacuation centers.
The conflict destroyed homes, infrastructures, water systems, the facilities needed for safe drinking and sanitation, and thousands lost their livelihoods.
Noting the distressing conditions of the internally displaced people in the evacuation center, Javad Amoozegar, ACF country director, emphasizes the need to focus on the wellbeing of the most vulnerable populations. “Children under five, persons with disability, pregnant and lactating women in evacuation centers, and those without permanent source of food and income especially those from poorer layers of the population are the most vulnerable in this situation, and their specific needs can be overlooked,” stresses Amoozegar.
The Zamboanga Action Plan 2014, which outlines the needs of the people affected by the crisis, highlights the very little help extended to save lives and alleviate their suffering.
Since the crisis begun, ACF, through the generous support of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), and European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), continuously provides latrines, water tanks and pipes, bathing facilities, faucets, and holds awareness sessions on disaster risk management, hygiene and sanitation training and positions nutrition intervention needed in addressing the growing cases of diarrhea and malnutrition among children under five.
“Despite the uncertainties in the evacuation center, the heads of families are determined to make a better future for their children. Their smiles and courage are inspiring. ACF and partners are here to help rebuild Zamboanga,” says Amoozegar.