The Philippine Preparedness Partnership (PHILPREP) was very fortunate to have embarked on a South-South Learning Exchange with the Nepal Preparedness Partnership (NPP). Representatives from the member organizations of PHILPREP – Office of Civil Defense (OCD); Center for Disaster Preparedness (CDP); Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF); and the University of the Philippines – Resilience Institute (UPRI) – visited local organizations in Kathmandu, Nepal from 22 to 24 February 2023.

PHILPREP was able to attend 11 meetings within a three-day period. The organizations and agencies curated by NPP highlighted Nepal’s country partnership and its leveraging of its multi-sectoral approach. Much like PHILPREP, NPP is a national partnership between the CSO, government, private sector, and academia. The first and second days focused on the private sector and government, while the third day was geared toward CSOs and academia. 

All things considered, government ownership in DRR and the NPP is present and strong. The partnership has a strong thrust and support from the primary duty bearer. It was said that NPP’s sustainability beyond APP support is guaranteed due to the leadership of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) and the government pillar. Regardless of the composition of each sectoral pillar, the government will ensure the continued existence and action of the partnership.

Possible points of opportunity were noted by each focal person with their sectoral viewpoint. With applicable areas, it will be forwarded to the management to identify actionable avenues.  For example, the disability-inclusive version of the NDRRM Plan can be forwarded to respective networks such as DRRNet Philippines and NDRRMC for review and consideration.

PHILPREP aims to include the results of the study visit in its regular staff development sessions. Organization members are expected to share the learnings with their respective project localities. Knowledge and training materials will also be updated to reflect good practices and parallels between Nepal and the Philippines.