How the Flagship Initiative is Changing Community Engagement in the Philippines

The Flagship Initiative is revolutionizing community engagement in humanitarian assistance in the Philippines, as explained by engagement specialists Carino "Rock Rock" Antequisa and Rhinadel Canete. This new approach focuses on transforming power dynamics and genuinely listening to community voices.

Key aspects of this innovative method include:

1. Using a discovery-based methodology with open-ended questions to foster inclusive discussions.
2. Employing Tagalog terms like "sana" (what I wish) to create space for people to speak on their own terms.
3. Ensuring transparency and accountability in documenting discussions.
4. Prioritizing the voices of those not typically heard to uncover new insights.
5. Viewing engagement as relationship-building, managing expectations throughout the process.
6. Implementing area-based coordination to promote shared ownership and inclusivity.
7. Using Tagalog terms "dapat" and "ginagawa" to encourage open discussions and highlight community initiatives.
8. Shifting from a focus on urgent needs to a holistic understanding of communities' assets, capacities, priorities, and aspirations.
9. Addressing resistance from local officials to foster inclusive decision-making.
10. Considering the pros and cons of standardized training in community engagement.

This approach aims to build stronger, more resilient communities by valuing and incorporating community perspectives, fostering a sense of agency, and creating a vision for a better future. The Flagship Initiative represents a significant shift from traditional community engagement methods, emphasizing tailored, context-specific approaches that empower local communities.

The Flagship Initiative is driving significant changes in how humanitarian assistance is delivered, shifting focus from providers to communities and aiming to graduate people out of dependence on aid. As the approach evolves, it has the potential to fundamentally transform the humanitarian system, leading to more effective, community-centered responses that address both immediate needs and long-term resilience.

For more information, visit: https://www.unocha.org/flagship-initiative