Serving amidst Pandemic

The use of communication technology (gadgets and apps) is very helpful when physical contact is not possible. Its potential is huge in terms of expanding the reach of the federation.

Many reflections were also elicited as the staff and BOTs adopt the virtual world into their work. Savings in terms of time for travel, transportation expenses and meal allowances are just some of the savings they could benefit from it. The ease of using online transactions was also appreciated during the period of quarantine.

Indeed, the pandemic has changed the way how the federation implements its activities. Welcoming new of perspective, and putting the situation as an opportunity to transform for the better, are things the organization are looking forward to.

Home-based sessions became the best alternative means to implement activities to maintain safety of participants. With aid of available communication apps, and production of vlogs, were helpful in carrying out activities across all life stage programs.

Further, the limitations of online communication in areas with no stable internet connections opens door to the idea of conducting home based sessions – the “mobile call” version. This strategy used mobile phone in loud speaker mode to facilitate group activities, in the absence of individual gadgets and internet signal.

The unexpected coming of a pandemic was not considered in the creation of the federation’s EPP. Incorporating COVID-19 experiences in the current EPP will ensure relevance of the plan to the present situation of communities.

Thinking further, prepositioning of supplies need not to be confined with the usual food packs, as communication load, hygiene supplies and protective equipment became more in demand when facing health-related crisis. Also, direct benefits such as cash transfer was more appropriate when movement of people are highly restricted.

The challenge of quarantine restrictions is an eye-opener on how the EPP can be enhanced further. Also, staff and BOTs appreciate more the importance of planning for preparedness and how a well-crafted emergency plan can help them continue their work despite of the adverse condition.