U.N. Coordinator Listen to CSOs and IDPs Voices

U.N. Coordinator Listen to CSOs and IDPs Voices

Maranao People Development Center (MARADECA) Inc. hosted a meeting organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Marawi field Office with the United Nation (UN) resident coordinator, Mr. Gustavo Gonzales on August 1, 2024. The meeting was set to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), seven years after Marawi Siege.

Various stakeholders including representatives from MARADECA, KALIMUDAN Foundation, ECOWEB, THUMA and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) leaders from Sagonsogan, West Dulay, and Mipantao convened to deliberate on the current situation of IDPs, the programs of civil society organizations (CSOs) in assisting them, as well as the obstacles in achieving long-term solutions to displacement in Marawi City.

During the meeting, the most common challenges aired by IDP leaders includes; limited income to meeting basic needs, expiration of contract with the landowners where shelter houses are constructed, water supply, substandard housing, transportation cost within the area, and flooding due to lack of proper drainage.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the UN Resident Coordinator to hear the voices direct from the people affected by the Marawi siege. He acknowledges all the challenges and concerns facing the IDPs in Marawi City. The information gathered in the meeting will be used for future initiatives and strategies to support and improve the lives of the IDPs for a long-term recovery.