DKH EnCap2 Continues amidst COVID-19
LCDE in partnership with Citizens' Disaster Response Center and Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe continue to implement the EnCap2 project in the region of Leyte in the Philippines despite of the on-going COVID-19 crisis in the Philippines and steadily rising cases in the region. During the onset of COVID-19 LCDE was able to carry out activities under the project even with the quarantine measures of the region in effect through close coordination with Local Government Units (LGU) and observance of public health protocols.
Throughout the months after the start of the quarantine LCDE was able to lay the groundwork in-order for the EnCap2 to proceed in several communities of Palo and Jaro in Leyte. LCDE staff visited both LGUs of these municipalities to inform them on the details of the project and encourage support on their end, which was met with a positive response. Project staff also underwent relevant trainings which will help them be more effective in the implementation of the EnCap2.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic presents a great challenge for the EnCap2 project, LCDE believes this project has become even more important in these times. The need for preparedness at the community level has become evident because of COVID-19 because of the strain it is causing to many government departments making it difficult for aid to arrive in a timely manner. The EnCap can help these communities achieve a measure of resiliency against disasters, especially since typhoon season in the country is fast approaching and may worsen the situation the people are in due to the pandemic.
Currently LCDE is coordinating with LGU’s and local government agencies to continue the EnCap2 project in Palo and Jaro.
The EnCap2 (Enhancing Capacities in Disaster Risk Reduction Management for More Resilient Peoples and Communities) is the second phase of a project supported by Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe (DKH) from 2016 which aims to increase the preparedness of its local partners for possible calamities, involve the community in disaster mitigation and preparedness, and advocate DRRM (Disaster Risk Reduction Management) policies through working with LGU’s (Local Government Units) and the private sector.
