WHO PHL / Published Jun 12, 2026

Risk Communication and Community Engagement Specialist

On-site3. Good health and well-being

Location: Philippines; Manila
Duration: 365 days; Possible extension
Deadline: Jun 26, 2026; 1 days ago
Assignments: 1; available position(s)
Expected start: Jul 15, 2026
Volunteer category: Specialist UCoS from Apr2026; National

Sustainable Development Goal

3. Good health and well-being

Assignment

What the volunteer will do

Mission and objectives

WHO in the Western Pacific Together with 37 Member States and areas, we fight infectious diseases like dengue and malaria, and noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Through immunization campaigns and initiatives such as First Embrace, we help mothers and children survive and thrive. We ensure the safety of our environment, our air, our water and our food – all of which impact our health every day. We prepare for and rapidly respond to disasters and emergencies, never losing sight of the fact that we are dealing with issues of life and death. With the stakes so high, we strive for excellence in working to bring better health and well-being to the nearly 1.9 billion people of the Western Pacific Region.

Context

The Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) team implements activities as part of WHO’s work on health emergencies in the Western Pacific Region. The mission of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) is to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks, and when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain outbreaks and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. WHE brings together and enhances WHO's operational, technical and normative capacities in outbreaks, emergencies and risk analysis to address all health hazards across the risk management cycle in a predictable, capable, dependable, adaptable and accountable manner. WHE is designed to operate within the broader humanitarian and emergency management architecture in support of people at risk of, or affected by, outbreaks and emergencies, consistent with ways that strengthen local and national capabilities. RCCE is highlighted in the Asia Pacific Health Security Action Framework (APHSAF), and constitutes an essential element of emergency preparedness, readiness and response. There will be continuous effort to strengthen RCCE capabilities with Member States and together with WHO Country Offices, before, during and after a crisis. The volunteer may be deployed to emergency operations, when required, and function as part of the Incident Management Support Teams (IMST) and Emergency Operating Centres (EOCs).

Task description

Under the supervision of the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Technical Officer, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Specialist will support the following: 1. Manage the planning, implementation, and monitoring of risk communication activities during outbreak response, disasters, and other graded emergencies; 2. Support social listening efforts to monitor and respond to misinformation and disinformation; 3. Develop and keep up to date a regional message bank of communication materials. The information, education, and communication (IEC) materials should be developed using Western Pacific Regional Office's (WPRO) message testing approaches and according to the available technical guidance, including coordination of clearance processes; 4. Contribute to the development of and co-facilitate capacity building activities on (all-hazards) emergency preparedness, readiness, and response; 5. Strengthen partnerships through managing and regularly engaging the BRIDGE networks; 6. Support organising Asia Pacific Health Security Action Framework (APHSAF) Communities of Practice (COPs), manage and engage with the COP members, and maintain the digital platform of the COP; 7. Contribute to the measurement, evaluation, and learning for RCCE activities and support donor reporting requirements; 8. Upon request, provide support, backstopping, and gap-filling for emergency activities at any level of the Organization or scale of emergency.

Requirements

Eligibility and qualifications

Age: 18 - 80
Required experience: 5 years
Education: Bachelor's degree
Nationality: National or legal resident of the assignment country

Languages

EnglishRequired

Fluent

Areas of expertise

CommunicationCommunity developmentCrisis and emergency response

Skills and experience

Required technical skills: - Experience in emergency response settings, including disease outbreaks, disasters and/or other health emergencies; - Experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating communications products and activities, including for digital platforms (social media, web); - At least five years’ experience at international, regional, or national level with international exposure in communications, external relations, community engagement, or infodemic. Other knowledge: - Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills; - Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing; - Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners; - Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel; - Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, among others), email, and internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment; - Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines. Desirable: - Experience working on outbreaks and public health emergencies. - Experience in the UN system. - Experience of working on large projects/programmes with a range of stakeholders - Have affinity with or interest in the Asia Pacific Region, volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN system.

Competencies and values

• Teamwork • Producing results • Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making

Notes

Additional information

Living conditions and remarks

1. Security Situation Manila, as the capital city of the Philippines, generally offers a safe environment for residents and visitors. While the city itself is typically secure, it’s important to remain vigilant and stay informed about local conditions, particularly in neighbourhoods known for higher crime rates. Volunteers should follow UN security protocols and travel advisories. 2. Access and Air Travel Manila is home to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), the main gateway to the Philippines. The airport provides numerous international and domestic flight options. Within the city, public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services facilitate easy access to various destinations. 3. Climate Manila has a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). It experiences three main seasons: Tag-init (dry season, December to May), Tagulan (rainy season, June to November), and cooler months in December and February. Typhoons can occur, particularly during the rainy season. 4. Cultural Awareness Manila is a melting pot of cultures. While dress is generally casual, modest clothing is recommended, especially in religious sites. Alcohol consumption is common in social settings; moderation is encouraged, as excessive drinking can be viewed negatively. 5. Cost of Living The cost of living in Manila is higher than in many other regions of the Philippines. A modest lifestyle typically ranges depending on individual preferences and lifestyle choices. Please check the following link for more information: https://wise.com/us/blog/cost-of-living-in-the-philippines 6. Availability of Food/Water/Electricity Manila boasts a vibrant food scene, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Fresh produce and seafood are readily available. However, tap water is generally not safe to drink, so bottled water is recommended. Electricity is widely available, although power outages can occur, particularly during severe weather. 7. Medical Facilities Medical facilities in Manila are of good quality, with numerous hospitals providing both public and private services. It is advisable for volunteers to have health insurance, as emergency care can be expensive. 8. Banking Facilities Banks are easily accessible throughout Manila, offering ATMs, currency exchange, and online banking services. While credit cards are accepted in many establishments, cash remains the preferred payment method in smaller shops and markets. 9. Communication Infrastructure Manila has a well-developed communication infrastructure, with reliable mobile networks and internet access. Major areas offer high-speed internet, while mobile plans are affordable, facilitating easy communication with family and friends. You can check full entitlements of UN Volunteers at the duty station at https://app.unv.org/calculator. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. UNV is committed to diversity, human rights, and individual dignity.

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