Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (19 - 25 March 2019)

INDONESIA

The reported number of people displaced by flash floods and landslides in Sentani District in Papua Province following heavy rains on 16 March has increased to nearly 17,000 people, according to the national disaster management agency (BNPB). Displaced people are sheltering in 33 displacement sites. The number of people known to have died has reached 112, with 94 people missing and 915 injured. The Provincial Government of Papua has issued a 14-day emergency response period between 16-29 March 2019 and the BNBP-led response has involved over 2,300 personnel from 28 organisations, including the National Red Cross (PMI).

17,000 people displaced

PHILIPPINES

Three simultaneous law enforcement operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines against non-state armed groups were reported in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, and Sulu in the newly formed political entity Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) during the second week of March 2019.

Cumulatively, there are 49,300 people displaced in the BARMM region as of 21 March with a majority from Maguidanao (over 35,000 people). Government authorities are leading the response, with support from the Philippine Red Cross in distributing food and relief items. The government is conducting a joint rapid needs assessment in coordination with the United Nations and humanitarian partners.

49,300 people displaced

MYANMAR

Fighting between the Myanmar Military and the Arakan Army (AA) has continued in Rakhine State and in Paletwa Township in Chin State in recent weeks, with civilian casualties and displacement. According to the Rakhine State Government, more than 16,000 people are currently displaced in 58 sites in Rakhine State, as of 24 March. At least 500 people were displaced in Paletwa. Due to the continued security situation, population movements remain fluid and continue to fluctuate. The displaced people are staying mainly in monasteries, in paddy fields, or other spaces in villages and towns. The Government, local communities, CSOs, the Red Cross Movement, INGOs, and UN agencies are responding to the most urgent needs of the displaced people.

However, livelihood activities of displaced people as well as host communities have been severely affected and further assistance will be needed if the displacement continues.

16,000 people displaced

MICRONESIA (FSO)

A joint damage assessment is ongoing in the outer islands of Chuuk and Yap following Cyclone Wutip which affected the area in late February. Approximately 10,000 people are estimated to have been affected and over 90% of the crops in some areas have been reportedly destroyed. The President of the Federated States of Micronesia issued a declaration of disaster on March 11 and requested international assistance. USAID/OFDA has allocated USD 100,000 to IOM to provide immediate food and water assistance.

10,000 people affected