By Regina S. Antequisa, Exec. Dir., ECOWEB
A decade has passed since Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) wreaked havoc on the Philippines, leaving behind a trail of destruction and loss that forever altered the lives of countless individuals and communities. As we mark this significant milestone, Ecosystems Work for Essential Benefits, Inc. (ECOWEB) stands in reflection and solidarity with those who experienced the profound impact of this disaster.
Our Journey and Learning: Advocating for Survivor and Community-Led Responses
ECOWEB was among the national NGOs that responded to the aftermath of Haiyan, an experience that has profoundly shaped our organization’s values and approach. The lessons we learned during this time were instrumental in our advocacy for a survivor and community-led response to crisis. We discovered that the strength of a community lies not only in its physical resilience but in its collective spirit and determination to rebuild.
Discovering Local Capacities Amidst the Chaos
In the face of disaster, we were inspired by the untapped local capacities that emerged. The resolve of our local partners on the ground, alongside affected communities, local CSOs, and local government units, illuminated a path forward. Together, we witnessed the resilience of individuals and communities coming together to stand tall amidst adversity, rebuilding their lives, and becoming more resilient than ever before.
Gratitude to Our Partners
ECOWEB extends heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, whose unwavering support and collaboration have allowed us to journey alongside them in their recovery and resilience-building efforts. Your trust in us has been the cornerstone of our shared successes.
Acknowledging the Psycho-Emotional Needs of Survivors
Through our experiences, we recognized the importance of not only addressing the material needs of the affected but also their psycho-emotional well-being. It became evident that attending to the emotional needs of survivors is essential for true resilience building. Survivors are the first real responders, showing us that, despite the destruction, they possess the determination and unity to face the aftermath of tragedy.
Accountability to Affected Populations
Super Typhoon Haiyan and our subsequent work with crisis-affected communities have taught ECOWEB a fundamental lesson: Accountability to Affected Populations is at the heart of humanitarian action. It means ensuring the protection of their rights and dignity, recognizing local capacities, and enabling people to take control of their own recovery and resilience-building.
As we reflect on the past decade, we are humbled by the strength and resilience of the communities we serve. Our journey with Super Typhoon Haiyan survivors and other crisis-affected populations has deepened our commitment to a more inclusive, survivor-centric, and community-led approach to disaster response and recovery.
We are grateful for the lessons learned and the progress made, yet we acknowledge that there is always more to understand and achieve. Together with our partners and the communities we serve, we remain committed to building a future where resilience is not just a concept but a lived reality.
