The Aging and Disability Task Force (ADTF) hosted the launch of the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) on March 12, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. The launch was attended by about 26 participants in person and 40 other participants online.
UPRI’s Jose Abraham Ongkiko, Chief Science Research Specialist was one of the panelists invited to share insights on how UPRI is already applying these standards, and explore their relevance in the Philippine context. The event provided a platform to share insights on why and how the CHS has been strengthened and explore how the updated standard will drive greater accountability, prioritizing the expectations of people affected by crises.
The CHS outlines essential commitments for organizations involved in humanitarian response, ensuring that communities and people affected by crises remain at the center of humanitarian action. It upholds principles of accountability, dignity, and participation, aiming to improve the quality and effectiveness of assistance.
Other panelists invited were Amor Tan Sinco – DRRNet Philippines, Michael Cristopher Mathay – DRRMB, DSWD, and Dr. Benjamin “Jun” Bernandino – Life Haven. The discussion was moderated by Edward Ello (Humanity & Inclusion).
The panelists shared their perspectives on implementing CHS through their expertise, leadership and insights on how the CHS principles are put into practice. The discussions hoped to help advance our shared mission of quality and accountability in humanitarian response.
Image 1: UPRI IB Chief Science Research Specialist Ongkiko in a group picture with other participants of the event