The Role of Civil Society in Disaster Response—The Philippine Experience

This article focuses on the role of civil society, particularly local non-government organizations (NGOs), in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) in the Philippines. Disaster response is usually viewed as dominated by state actors and international organizations. In the Philippines, the DRRM frameworks and plans put a lot of responsibility on different national and local government agencies but the legal environment also allows for participation of local NGOs and civil society organizations (CSOs). This chapter argues that local NGOs can ensure transparency and accountability and provide voice to those who don’t have access to influential institutions. They have the expertise, local knowledge, trust of the local community, and the resources that could complement the government’s responsibility in disaster risk reduction and management. They can perform unique roles like the transport of relief goods in conflict areas or bridging government and local community relations. Thus, the global humanitarian system should not look at local NGOs as competitors in humanitarian work. They should be seen as partners whose resources and skills can improve communities’ disaster resilience.