The Philippines' first IPC exercise was successfully conducted from 26 to 29 November 2012. The IPC training and analysis workshop, was led by the National IPC TWG, overseen by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Philippines Government, and made possible through the European Commission for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO).

Typhoon Bopha hit the east coast of Mindanao in the south of the Philippines a few days after the conclusion of the IPC acute analysis in Mindanao. As part of IPC’s aim of providing rigorous and timely analysis of the food insecurity situation, the IPC-TWG conducted a second round of analysis in February 2013 in the areas most affected by typhoon Bopha.

Due to the widespread destruction of assets, resources and the effect on agricultural production and water sanitation, it could have been reasonably expected that these areas would have been in Phase 4. However, the quick and efficient response, involving coordination and actions between the Philippine Government, UN agencies, NGOs and the donor community resulted in assistance being provided early and in places where it was most needed.

The IPC analysis also highlighted the impact of humanitarian aid and response across various geographic areas in emergency situation and the consequences of any change in assistance levels. The information was also utilized by government agencies as well as development organizations and donors in their response planning.

The IPC analysis results and impact are undergoing a comprehensive validation and critical evaluation at the provincial level.