Philippine Red Cross

In the Philippines, the ICRC works in areas suffering from the consequences of long-running armed conflicts and situations of violence. The ICRC has been working in the Philippines since the Second World War, with a permanent presence established in 1982. Working often in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, we strive to protect the life and dignity of people affected by the protracted armed conflicts in the country. We promote awareness of and respect for international humanitarian law (IHL) by reminding all parties to the conflict of their obligations under these rules. We work with the authorities to integrate IHL into domestic law and into military systems and processes in order to enhance their compliance with international legal standards. We also help the authorities ensure that people deprived of their liberty are provided with humane treatment and detention conditions. We support their efforts so that detainees are able to maintain contact with their families through visits or the exchange of messages. I always fear displacement. I wish everyone who has been displaced can find stability, provide for their families and live with dignity. If we pray wholeheartedly and our deeds are good, we will get through it. The world needs more humanitarians, especially where government functions have almost collapsed because of conflict. We need humanitarians who are kind, compassionate and have a lot of empathy. Our activities include livelihood assistance, health care and improving access to clean water. International humanitarian law, also known as the rules of war, seeks to limit the effects of armed conflict. Our Restoring Family Links initiative supports people who have missing family members. We work with the PRC’s wide network of staff and volunteers to help people in vulnerable situations. The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is our primary partner in helping people affected by armed conflicts. We work together to provide the basics of life – food, water, shelter and health care – when there are gaps in the overall response. We enhance the PRC’s capacity to respond safely to emergencies through material and technical assistance, and we support their efforts to promote IHL.