IOM – International Organization for Migration

Published purpose

December 2012 - Typhoon Bopha (local name "Pablo") made landfall on the eastern coast of Mindanao island in southern Philippines on 5 December as a category five typhoon, the most destructive storm to hit the country this year. Typhoon Bopha brought heavy rains and strong winds, leaving a trail of destruction to homes, livelihoods, and critical public infrastructure as it crossed over the southern Philippines. The eastern provinces of Mindanao were the most affected. Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration is the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration and works closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. Among its main areas of work, the organization is a key player in delivering humanitarian assistance to targeted displaced populations in need, including refugees and internally displaced people. Primary activities include the provision of emergency shelters, camp coordination and camp management, health assistance to displaced populations, and protection of vulnerable persons, including children. With CIDA support, IOM's 2012 emergency operations in the Philippines is providing basic life-saving assistance for up to 480,000 people affected by the typhoon.