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The AFICS-PHL Outreach Committee has launched a fund drive to help address the urgent need for sanitary and hygiene kits for women deprived of liberty at the Muntinlupa City Jail.

Each hygiene kit, valued at approximately ₱500, will contain a bar of soap, shampoo sachets, toothpaste, a toothbrush, sanitary pads, a comb, a face towel, and toilet paper.

Members who wish to support the initiative may send their donations through GCash 0920 972 6360 (Flo Tyson). A screenshot of the donation receipt should be sent to the same number. The fund drive will run until 31 August 2026.

AFICS-PHL has a Memorandum of Agreement with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to support the E-Dalaw Project in the city jails of Marikina, Mandaluyong, and Muntinlupa. The project enables women deprived of liberty to maintain contact with their families, legal counsel, and healthcare providers through video calls and online messaging.

On 17 September 2025, AFICS-PHL turned over three Lenovo tablets to support the E-Dalaw Project. An April monitoring visit to the three BJMP facilities confirmed that the tablets are being used extensively. In some facilities, the AFICS-PHL-donated tablets are currently the only units functioning properly.

In addition to supporting the E-Dalaw Project, AFICS-PHL is exploring the provision of additional tablets and laptops to assist women deprived of liberty enrolled in the Alternative Learning System (ALS), where access to computers is essential for their studies.

The monitoring visit also highlighted the urgent needs of the Muntinlupa City Jail, the most overcrowded among the three facilities visited. According to Senior Inspector Joan Mortel, Warden of the Muntinlupa City Jail, 84 women are currently housed in a single dormitory with only three toilets and three bathrooms. She also reported a shortage of basic hygiene items, including soap, shampoo, and sanitary pads.

The fund drive is endorsed by the AFICS-PHL Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee. Interested members may support the initiative by donating through the GCash account indicated above.

AFICS-PHL will provide members with updates on its partnership with the BJMP.

Grateful for the opportunities and benefits gained through their UN careers, AFICS members continue their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Through community outreach programs, they extend compassion, support vulnerable groups, and help build stronger, more caring communities.

In April and May 2026, the Middle East conflict disrupted oil supplies, causing sharp increases in fuel prices. Jeepney and tricycle drivers, whose livelihoods depend on fuel, suffered significant income losses, leaving many families struggling to meet basic food needs. Government assistance proved insufficient. 

In response, the AFICS' Outreach Committee quickly launched a community pantry initiative to provide temporary food assistance to affected transport workers and their families. Two community pantries were organized:

• • 19 April 2026: 140 jeepney drivers from Cubao–Quiapo and Cubao–Divisoria associations received food packs containing rice, dried fish, mongo beans, vegetables, sardines, and spaghetti. 

  • 1 May 2026 (Labor Day): 150 tricycle drivers from QUITODA received similar food packs through a partnership with St. Joseph Shrine's Social Services and Development Ministry In total, 290 transport workers benefited from the project

The Emergency Assistance to Distressed Workers were self-funded through voluntary contributions from AFICS members. The project successfully provided timely assistance to 290 transport workers and their families during a period of extreme economic hardship. It also benefited farmers through direct purchases, engaged new community partners, achieved its fundraising goals, and demonstrated effective collaboration among AFICS committees. 

Also this April, the AFICS Outreach Committee visited the female dormitories in Marikina, Mandaluyong, and Muntinlupa to assess the impact of AFICS-donated tablets to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) for their E-Dalaw program. The E-Dalaw Program of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in the Philippines is an electronic visitation system that allows Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) to communicate with their families, lawyers, and support networks through video calls and other online communication platforms. 

The three dormitories house a total of 284 WDLs (Marikina: 146, Mandaluyong: 54, Muntinlupa: 84). The visits confirmed that AFICS-supported tablets play a critical role in maintaining family and legal connections and are highly valued by WDLs and facility staff. However, shortages of devices, educational resources, and basic welfare supplies remain significant challenges. 

As AFICS Philippines closes its WDL program, the Outreach Committee will donate an additional electronic tablet per facility. In addition, AFICS-PHL will seek used but functioning computers for student WDLs, and add fundraising resources to supply hygiene kits to Muntinlupa WDLs. 

The FAFICS 56th Council meeting will be held at the Vienna International Centre (VIC), Austria, from 20-24 July 2026. As in recent years, this Council will be a hybrid meeting, encouraging in-person attendance but with remote participation, including voting, available. FAFICS is once again pleased to collaborate with ARICSA and UNOV in organizing this Council meeting. The first day will be devoted to open ad hoc meetings of the FAFICS Standing Committees (Pension Issues, ASHIL, Communication and Membership). The provisional agenda includes the President’s Report, presentations from the Chief Executive for Pension Administration of the UNJSPF, and the UN Sgg’s Representative on Investment matters, elections for several open position of FAFICS (including President, Treasurer, three Vice Presidents, and auditors. Expectedly, there will be discussions on the implications of the UN General Assembly resolution on the review of the UN Pension Scheme.

In terms of delegations from Member Associations, each Association is encouraged to register up to 4 delegates (which could be a combination or in-person and virtual participation, only virtual, or only in-person delegates). Registration is open via UNOV’s indico, until 15 July 2026.

The Philippine delegation will be hybrid. AFICS Philippines is also nominating for the position of FAFICS auditor. Details to follow.

On 8 April 2026, AFICS-PHL received from FAFICS a pre-suspension list of 26 retirees and beneficiaries residing in the Philippines, together with a request to assist in contacting them. These colleagues had not submitted their 2025 Certificate of Entitlement (CE), and the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF) had been unable to locate or contact them. As a result, they faced the risk of having their pension benefits suspended effective June 2026.

Efforts to contact the retirees and beneficiaries by e-mail or telephone presented several challenges:

• Outdated contact information. In many cases, retirees’ e-mail addresses, mobile numbers, or home addresses were no longer current – some e-mails sent by AFICS-PHL were returned as undeliverable.

• Paper Certificate of Entitlement (CE). Those whom we successfully contacted reported either that they had not received the paper CE from the UNJSPF or that they had already completed and mailed it back. AFICS-PHL also provided guidance to retirees and their families on transitioning from the paper CE process to the Digital CE system to help prevent similar issues in the future.

• Deceased retirees. Some retirees had passed away, but their deaths had not yet been reported to the UNJSPF. In several cases, this information was confirmed through former colleagues or mutual acquaintances, who also assisted in locating family members so that the necessary notification could be made to the Fund.

• Direct mail. AFICS-PHL attempted to send copies of its communications by courier service to retirees’ home addresses. However, this was not always possible because the courier companies required the recipient’s mobile number before accepting delivery.

• Home visits. As a last resort, AFICS-PHL arranged visits to retirees and beneficiaries at their recorded home addresses. While these efforts were successful in several cases, reaching those residing outside Metro Manila proved more challenging. Fortunately, a number of AFICS members volunteered their assistance, either because they lived nearby or knew fellow retirees in the relevant cities and provinces who could help establish contact.

By the completion of the exercise on 14 June 2026, AFICS-PHL was able to report to the UNJSPF the status and whereabouts of all 26 retirees and beneficiaries included in the pre-suspension list. This 100 percent completion rate was achieved through the dedicated efforts of the Pension Committee and support from many AFICS-PHL members who generously volunteered their time, contacts, and local knowledge to help locate colleagues and their families.

The outcomes were as follows:

• • 22 cases (85%) – The retiree or beneficiary was successfully contacted, and the required Certificate of Entitlement (CE) or Digital CE was completed and submitted.

  • 4 cases (15%) – The retiree or beneficiary had passed away. Family members were contacted and assisted in reporting the death to the UNJSPF so that the necessary administrative procedures could be initiated.

This year’s CE exercise highlighted several important lessons:

• • Keep contact information up to date. Maintaining current contact details is essential to ensure timely communication from the UNJSPF. Retirees and beneficiaries are strongly encouraged to update their information through the UNJSPF’s Member Self-Service (MSS) platform whenever there are changes in their address, e-mail, or telephone number.

  • Inform family members of pension procedures. Family members should be aware of the steps to take and the information to be provided in the event of a retiree’s passing. Prompt notification to the UNJSPF is critical to prevent pension payments from continuing beyond the date of death, which may result in the need to reimburse the Fund. Timely reporting also enables the UNJSPF to determine and process any residual or survivor benefits without unnecessary delay.

  • The value of the AFICS-PHL network. Membership in AFICS-PHL provides more than opportunities for fellowship and engagement. It also offers access to a valuable information and network of former colleagues and fellow retirees who can share experiences, provide information, and extend practical support when needed. The success of this year’s exercise clearly demonstrated the strength of that network and the spirit of mutual assistance among AFICS-PHL members.

Bhutan

As part of its programme to raise funds and strengthen camaraderie among members, families, and friends, AFICS-Philippines organized two special tours in 2026. The first was a cultural immersion tour of Bhutan, aptly described as a journey to unlock the mysteries of the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Held from February 24 to March 3, the tour brought together 19 travelers eager to experience the unique heritage, traditions, and way of life of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

The tour provided a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, where ancient traditions continue to thrive amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Participants explored the country’s deeply rooted Buddhist philosophy, which influences every aspect of Bhutanese life, from governance and education to architecture and environmental conservation.

A highlight of the journey was the exploration of Bhutan’s vibrant arts and crafts traditions through visits to its handloom weaving centers where skilled artisans create intricate textiles and colorful silk fabrics and the Arts and Crafts Academy, where young Bhutanese are trained in traditional wood carving, sculpture, embroidery, and the intricate art of mandala and thangka painting—sacred forms of Buddhist artistic expression.Members of the group were given the rare opportunity to try their hand at the delicate craft of creating mandala, an elaborate geometric design composed of millions of grains of colored sand.

The travelers also enjoyed authentic farm-to-table Bhutanese cuisine during a homestay visit, providing a glimpse into rural life and the warm hospitality of local families. Dressed in traditional Bhutanese attire, the group participated in the vibrant Punakha Spring Festival, where they witnessed colorful cultural performances, traditional dances, and folk songs,

The itinerary included visits to some of Bhutan’s most revered religious and historical sites, including majestic dzongs (fortress-monasteries), sacred temples, chortens and stupas, and the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.

More than a sightseeing trip, the Bhutan cultural tour was a transformative experience that allowed participants to immerse themselves in a society where happiness, spirituality, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship remain central values.

Kyushu, Japan

The second AFICS-Philippines tour for 2026 took 22 members, families, and friends to the enchanting island of Kyushu, Japan, from April 1–8, at the height of the country’s celebrated cherry blossom season. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, active volcanoes, soothing hot springs, and historical landmarks, Kyushu provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable springtime journey.

From the very first day, the group was welcomed by the breathtaking beauty of sakura in full bloom. The magnificent cherry blossoms adorned the pathways and lakesides of Ohori Park and framed the historic grounds of Kushida Shrine, creating scenes reminiscent of traditional Japanese paintings. Throughout the tour, participants were treated to endless displays of pink and white blossoms in parks, castles, temples, and city streets.

The tour also included a moving visit to Nagasaki Peace Park, a solemn reminder of the devastating atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945 and a powerful symbol of humanity’s enduring quest for peace.

Kyushu’s spiritual heritage was experienced through visits to some of its most revered shrines. The Yuutoku Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s three great Inari shrines and the Takachiho Shrine, nestled within an ancient cedar forest that offered a serene atmosphere deeply connected to Japanese mythology.

The group also visited renowned porcelain, ceramic and pottery villages celebrated for centuries of craftsmanship and where many membrs took home beautifully crafted pieces as treasured souvenirs of the journey.

One of the most charming experiences was the Yanagawa Canal Cruise. Aboard traditional wooden boats, participants drifted leisurely through the city’s network of picturesque canals while local boatmen entertained them with folk songs and stories. Among the tour’s most spectacular natural attractions was Takachiho Gorge, one of Japan’s most scenic landscapes. Carved by volcanic activity over thousands of years, the gorge is renowned for its dramatic basalt cliffs, emerald waters, and cascading waterfalls.

Kyushu is often called Japan’s “Land of Fire” because of its remarkable geothermal activity. The group explored the famous “Hells of Beppu,” a collection of extraordinary hot spring pools featuring steaming blue, red, and milky-white waters, bubbling mud pools, and other fascinating hydrothermal phenomena. The island’s geothermal riches also gave rise to its celebrated hot spring culture. Participants enjoyed time in Kurokawa Onsen, widely regarded as one of Japan’s most picturesque hot spring towns. Surrounded by forests and traditional ryokan inns, the town offered a peaceful retreat where some members experienced the relaxing and therapeutic pleasures of natural hot spring baths.

The journey concluded in the charming town of Yufuin, known for its artistic atmosphere and idyllic countryside setting. Strolling along Yunotsubo Street, members explored stylish boutiques, artisanal shops, cozy cafés, galleries, and specialty stores showcasing local crafts and delicacies. The whimsical Yufuin Floral Village added a touch of storybook charm with its European-inspired architecture, flower-filled pathways, themed cafés, and artisan shops.

As part of its Outreach Programme, AFICS Philippines provided food packs to 300 transport workers, e,g, jeepney and tricycle drivers serving two major routes in Quezon City, Metro Manila this early 2026. The initiative was undertaken in recognition of the economic challenges faced by many transport workers as a result of rising fuel prices, increasing food costs, and overall inflation.

The recent conflict in the Middle East has further contributed to higher gasoline prices, adversely affecting the livelihood of transport workers whose daily earnings are often barely sufficient to meet the needs of their families and household expenses.

To help ease these difficulties, the AFICS Philippines Outreach Committee organized two community pantries or food distribution activities, reaching hundreds of drivers and their families. The programme was made possible through the financial support of AFICS Philippines and the generous contributions of its members.

Through this initiative, AFICS Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to extending assistance to vulnerable sectors of society and promoting solidarity and compassion within the community.

AFICS-Philippines began 2026 with a strategic planning initiative aimed at consolidating its programs and activities for the 2026–2027 period. On April 23, 2026, members of the Executive Board and officers convened for a strategic planning session to review and harmonize the workplans of the Association’s various committees, with the objective of setting priorities and aligning activities and budgets for the next two years.

During the session, the committees on Pension and Benefits, Health, Membership, Communications, Finance and Fund Development, Outreach, and Special Projects presented their respective priority programs, expected outputs, and implementation plans for 2026–2027.

Beyond presenting individual workplans, the committees also identified areas of convergence and common interests across their programmes. This collaborative review enabled them to establish mechanisms for inter-committee coordination, maximize resources and expertise, and avoid duplication of efforts.

Following the presentations and discussions, the committees refined and finalized their respective workplans. The strategic planning session culminated in the approval of the AFICS-Philippines Calendar of Activities for 2026–2027, together with the corresponding budget framework, providing a clear roadmap for the Association’s activities and initiatives over the next two years.