REQUEST FOR INFORMATION 7204922400003 Logistics Support in PH MG and PNG.pdf

DRAFT

Appendix 1: Preliminary Technical Requirements

TITLE

USAID LOGISTICS SUPPORT AND PARTNER LIAISON SECURITY SERVICES ACTIVITY

PURPOSE

This activity shall help advance the United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) high standards of development assistance by providing demand-driven logistics and security support services in support of USAID Philippines and Mongolia and USAID Papua New Guinea Country Office in areas including difficult to reach and hard to serve areas where currently there are USAID funded activities.

The primary objectives of this activity are to provide: 1) logistical support services, 2) security support services 3) monitoring and information management services, and 4) partner liaison security office services.

The activity shall provide logistical, security, monitoring and information management and partner security office services to allow USAID staff to securely travel for site visits to provide technical and fiduciary oversight in support of difficult to reach/non-permissive environments and to provide enhanced continuity of operations through partner liaison services.

BACKGROUND

USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency delivering development and disaster assistance in the Philippines, Mongolia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). On behalf of the American people, USAID promotes and demonstrates democratic values abroad, and advances a free, peaceful and prosperous world. All three locations are subject to the effects of climate change, natural disasters and conflict in varying forms. In particular, The USAID Philippines and Mongolia Mission has ongoing activities in several sectors including Health, Education, Environment, Economic Growth, Democracy and Governance. Climate change is a key, cross-cutting concern for every sector. Climate change is worsening the already-high disaster risk; more frequent and severe storms, wildfires, flooding, and landslides raise the risk of water, food-borne, and other infectious diseases; damage to agriculture and natural resources; loss of livelihoods;

infrastructure damage; disruption to education; and more. Additionally, with the exception of Mongolia, the Philippine Mission sits on the volcanic “ring of fire.” USAID works with various partners from the government, non-government organizations, and the private sector to improve preparedness for disaster and climate stresses, and deliver humanitarian assistance, improve services in health, education, environment, economic growth and democracy and governance.

Problem Statement

In difficult to reach or non-permissive environments, transportation and security support are two of the most important issues hampering USAID field visits - visits that are necessary to provide fiduciary oversight, development assistance and humanitarian aid. Systematically monitoring and analyzing ground conditions and security incidents is essential to mitigating risk when working in restrictive environments. Additionally, building partner capacity for continuity of operations is necessary to successful implementation of development activities.

This activity will prioritize the following geographic areas.

Geographic Priorities

Philippines

USAID Philippines and Mongolia is a service provision mission providing support to operations in the Philippines, the Pacific Island countries, and Mongolia. The Mission plays a critical role in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. The Philippines, a U.S. strategic partner and treaty ally with a population of over 115 million, borders the South China Sea and neighbors Taiwan. Its geographic location and recent political embrace of the U.S. security partnership has kept the Philippines on the front line of U.S. national security interests in the region.

USAID Philippines has been a consistent ally and development partner to the Government of the Philippines (GPH) for the past 63 years, and the largest grant donor in the Philippines.

Mission programming promotes democracy and human rights; supports inclusive economic growth; furthers sustainable energy; boosts competitiveness; counters wildlife trafficking;

promotes natural resource management and fights climate change; conserves biodiversity;

combats tuberculosis and HIV; supports family planning; strengthens health and education systems; improves basic, vocational and higher education outcomes; builds community resilience to, and preparation for, natural disasters; and supports democratic governance.

The Philippines is a permissive environment for USAID, with Mindanao as the exception. The muslims in Mindanao have fought for centralized governance for at least 400 years. Rido, or inter–clan conflicts over violations of honor and pride, is a pervasive occurrence in the region.

USAID Philippines, in line with its Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS), pursues a more stable, prosperous and well-governed nation by accelerating and sustaining broad-based and inclusive growth, improving peace and stability in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, and increasing environmental resilience. This activity will contribute primarily to improving peace and stability in conflict- affected areas in Mindanao by providing services to mitigate and reduce risks to USG personnel traveling to Mindanao and foster greater resilience for USAID implementing partners operating in the region, facilitating continuity of programmatic operations. Other agencies operating in the U.S. Embassy in Manila, such as the U.S.

Department of State, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Foreign Agricultural Services, the U.S. Commercial Services, and Peace Corps also support projects and activities in Mindanao.

USAID Philippines’ new CDCS will continue to support development priorities of the Government of the Philippines (GPH), as stated in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-28 and the 25-year long-term development plan, Ambisyon Natin 2040, which aims for a strongly rooted, comfortable and secure life for all Filipinos.

Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago comprise one-quarter of the Philippines’ total population and hold significant potential for economic growth. Instability—brought about by poverty, marginalization and conflict—has impeded development in many areas throughout the region.

USAID Philippines partners with national and local governments and civil society to address the root causes of these challenges. By enhancing governance and civic engagement, improving access to quality social services, protecting life-sustaining natural resources and expanding economic opportunities, especially among youth in the most vulnerable communities, USAID Philippines is helping make way for families and communities throughout the Mindanao region to pursue a more stable future.

Security remains problematic in Mindanao because of the many historical grievances of the Moro people. After numerous attempts to resolve the conflict, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) signed a final peace agreement, and Congress passed the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which voters in Mindanao ratified. Insecurity in Mindanao is not due solely to the past conflicts with MILF and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Conflicts and insecurity also emanate from the presence of numerous armed groups, criminal gangs, political elites, a shadow economy, clan wars, and a gun culture that prevails in the region. The May 2025 elections for the BARMM parliament poses threat of violence and conflict as political clans will try to make their way back to the BARMM governance structure. Other possible sources of violence are disgruntled MILF combatants who are disappointed with the gap between the promise and delivery of demobilization packages under the normalization component of the

BOL.

Conflicts and displacements regularly occur in the Mindanao region. Episodes of attacks against development aid workers, including kidnappings, have occurred in Mindanao since 2003, and the United Nations (UN) agencies and many international NGOs (INGOs) working in Mindanao have established travel and field visit guidelines for their expatriates and local staff. Despite major strides in security management, these UN agencies and INGOs remain vigilant in tracking the security situations in Mindanao and in implementing security protocols in working in conflict-affected areas.

The primary concern of USAID and its Implementing Partners (IPs) is movement around Mindanao and adjacent areas, which can be easily disrupted by inter-clan fighting, natural disasters and the possible perception of programming being representative of the Philippine Government. Currently, IPs are able to conduct programs and operations due to the safety and security controls they have in place. In some areas, the Philippine security sector have accused IPs of providing unintentional support to communities where communist insurgents are present, which makes the IPs vulnerable to being “red-tagged” and restricted in their operations.

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Mongolia is strategically important to the U.S. national security as a “third neighbor” and a democratic foothold between Russia and China. Concerns about government transparency and accountability and multi-year weather events strain Mongolia’s economy. Challenges include a mining-based economy reliant on energy and food imports combined with a large, disaffected youth population. As a democratic partner wedged between malevolent actors, USG assistance supports U.S. foreign policy and Mongolian priorities of stronger democratic governance, enhanced economic growth, and sustainable natural resource management. Mongolia is a permissive environment with implementing partners free to move about the country; however, due to the impact of climate change, the country faces increasingly extreme weather events from drought to dzud.

Papua New Guinea (PNG)

PNG, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu have over 70% of the Pacific Island countries’ (PICs) population, and over 60% of the region’s GDP. While their land masses appear small on the map, their exclusive economic zones (EEZ) encompass a vast area that is critical to global security and vital to the global economy, hosting a large proportion of the world’s shipping, fisheries, and naval corridors. The capacity of women and girls is significantly challenged by persistent gender inequality issues. Women and girls are highly vulnerable to human trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV).

The PNG Country Office supports the 2022–2027 Strategic Framework for the Pacific Islands to advance a more democratic, prosperous, and resilient Pacific Island region. Resilience plays a significant role in Pacific Islands programming to help communities sustainably adapt to and recover from various natural and man-made shocks and stresses. Climate change is a key development and security priority for the region, which aligns closely with the USG’s actions to address the climate crisis abroad. Natural disasters are constant with cycles of high wind, landslides, earthquakes and cyclones.

While geographically and culturally heterogeneous, there are over 800 languages spoken in PNG. A strong sense of tribal identity within society makes working within PNG difficult.

Violence can erupt with little to no warning. PNG’s remote Highlands region is considered non-permissive, both difficult to reach and frequented by tribal violence. With limited infrastructure, communication networks, and government emergency capacity, the response time when faced with natural disasters is problematic. There is no road connectivity across the country. Roads branch out from major population centers, and then stop at geographical impediments. To travel across the country, IPs and Mission staff are forced to fly. Airfield access can be limited by natural disasters and typical weather-related issues. Given the need to import everything, fuel for flights and vehicles is expensive.

IPs currently note challenges with tribal feuds, criminality, communal violence, Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV), logistics, natural disasters, local capacity, scarcity of government human and financial resources, corruption, bureaucratic delays, and the constant shifting of political allegiances.

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/Strategic-Framework-Pacific-Islands-March-2022-2027.pdf

SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES

Purpose

The aim of this activity is to offer security and logistical support services, monitoring and information management services and establish a partner liaison security office (PLSO). The services shall include functioning as a security data repository, providing transportation services and other logistical and administrative assistance to facilitate monitoring and evaluation site visits, including short-term visits by VIPs, U.S government officials and visitors to the targeted regions. Services will also include providing alternative transportation options, particularly for accessing hard to reach locations. The activity shall maintain current situational analysis, apprise USAID staff and implementing partners of security-related concerns in areas with United States Government (USG) programming, and assist USAID staff to monitor and/or launch new activities through the provision of logistical and administrative support. The Implementing Partner (IP) shall also provide a high level of security-focused analytical and programmatic support services to USAID Philippines IPs operating in high-threat locations in the Mindanao region and PNG. The need for a consistent and appropriate level of safety and security support for the Mission’s IPs is critical. To this end, the activity shall provide partner liaison security (PLS) services to facilitate enhanced communication and information sharing to help IPs manage security risks.

Objective 1: USAID staff have logistical and security support needed to travel, meet with host government counterparts and conduct site visits to provide fiduciary oversight and technical direction to USAID programs.

Objective 2: USAID Implementing Partners (IPs) resilience to shocks enhanced through information sharing, enhanced communication, planning and training resulting in continued delivery of results for USAID programs.

Standards of Performance

1. Safety and security of every U.S. Government (USG) personnel are the primary concern.

The principle behind the activity is protecting the safety and security of all staff members of the USG traveling to potentially at-risk areas. USAID recognizes that the nature of delivering work in at-risk areas is challenging. Prioritizing safety focuses both on the human aspect of our work, but is also an investment that facilitates U.S. government assistance, which supports the host government to accomplish its development objectives. Without physical protection and security measures, USG personnel are unable to continue providing assistance promoting peaceful and socio-economic development.

2. Coordination with RSO. All security risk management and transportation services comply with the policies and requirements of the U.S. Embassy Regional Security Office (RSO).

Coordination with the RSO to synchronize efforts in delivering services to USG personnel is required. RSO is responsible for the protection of U.S. diplomatic facilities, personnel, and information. RSO sets Security Directives and Mission Travel Policies for which all employees must abide. All services provided by the activity must be compliant with RSO requirements, and must defer to RSO on all security-related planning, including approval of travel, destinations, itineraries, lodging and abiding by minimum standards for transportation and communications while traveling.

3. Ensure distinction of the identities, functions and roles of USG personnel and security personnel arranged by the Contractor. Although by design, the delivery of services will combine security operations and development work, the lines between USG personnel and the security personnel from the host government National Police and/or host government Armed Forces must be clearly distinct. The IP is expected to be familiar with the non-binding guidelines of the Interagency Standard Committee (IASC) on the use of armed escorts for humanitarian convoys, which outlines the principle of balancing security risks with program criticality. During the USG visits, security personnel arranged by the IP must not participate in implementing, monitoring, or evaluating any USG activity or component of a USG activity. This includes interacting with local populations or project beneficiaries about USG assistance, as these are inherent responsibilities of USG personnel involved in delivering development assistance. The IP must not pay salaries or fees to security personnel from the host country National Police or Armed Forces as it arranges necessary security support.

4. Setting third party monitoring (TPM) expectations and ethical considerations. This activity will provide some limited flexibility for TPM but in close consultation with USAID, and may be utilized if other TPM instruments are not able to provide support in restrictive environments. In cases where USAID staff are restricted to visit particular areas to monitor activity implementation, TPM services may be utilized. However, it is important that Mission staff understand what the TPM services are designed not to do. The following are limitations of TPM under this activity: a) It will not replace COR oversight responsibilities; b) It will not replace an Activity Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Plan (AMELP); c) It will not serve as a rolling evaluator nor replace other MEL functions; d) It may not include highly specialized technical subject matter experts as field monitors; and e) It does not serve as an audit. TPM can pose high danger and may result in harm, if not death, to those who are collecting information on behalf of USAID. It is important that USAID will be sensitive to the security risks of those engaged in TPM. The safety of field monitors should be the number one priority, and the IP will work with USAID should be able to outline how they will mitigate risk and provide duty of care to field staff.

5. Respect for existing mandates and structures of the host government. – The IP must deliver services in a manner that respects the authorities, mandates, capacities and capabilities of the host government’s security forces and civilian agencies at all levels – from village-level to national-level. These host government agencies lead the provision of security and development assistance for their people. Successfully delivering services will require the Contractor to nurture relationships, establish trust, and cooperate with these host government https://reliefweb.int/report/world/iasc-non-binding-guidelines-use-armed-escorts-humanitarian-convoys?_gl=1*1rtzh1z*_ga*MTI1MTY3MzYzLjE3MTgxNTYxNDQ.*_ga_E60ZNX2F68*MTcxODE1NjE0NC4xLjEuMTcxODE1NjIzMC41Ny4wLjA.

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agencies. The IP is expected to pursue professionalism, where coordination breeds collaborative support between the host government agencies and USG personnel.

6. Do No Harm – The IP must comply with the Do No Harm principle while implementing all activities. This principle emphasizes the importance of not putting partners, beneficiaries and the local population in general at greater risks than they would otherwise face without the USG assistance (or presence). As the USG continues to provide assistance in at-risk areas of the host country, the Contractor needs to be cognizant of the shifts (if any) in the local context. Most importantly, the IP must take every precaution so as to eliminate or minimize negative, unintended consequences of USG visits that could inadvertently put the lives and general well-being of the local population at risk.

7. Non Disclosure of Information - All information that the IP receives from USG sources, including operations and security reports that the IP generates as a result of this contract, shall not be shared or disclosed in any manner or form without written authorization from the Agreement/Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and/or Agreement/Contracting Officer (CO).

AWARDLINE ITEMS

Due to variance in USAID operational needs, this activity will be implemented through a Award Line Item structure.

Item 001 - CORE (Mindanao)

Item 001 supports official visits to the Mindanao region through the delivery of the four requirements listed below and the associated core services.

● Requirement 1: Logistical Support Services;

● Requirement 2: Security Support Services;

● Requirement 3: Third Party Monitoring and Information Management Services; and,

● Requirement 4: Partner Liaison Security Office (PLSO) services, which shall have nationwide coverage for information sharing and disaster response but shall maintain a primary focus on Mindanao.

Map of USAID Activities in Mindanao

DRAFTLevel of Effort and Support

At the minimum, 14 (3 armored and 11 unarmored) vehicles are expected to be in the fleet of this contract. It is estimated that 8 vehicles (2 armored and 4 unarmored) will be stationed ready to dispatch at the main office of the , which USAID recommends is located in Davao. The rest of the vehicles will be stationed in sub-offices in the region. USAID will furnish armored vehicles as part Government Furnished Equipment . The IP shall present their anticipated vehicle needs as part of their annual work plan and should budget for non-armored vehicles.

Based on historical data and the information provided by USAID Philippines technical and administrative staff and US Embassy personnel, 440 total estimated trips are anticipated during the duration of this 5-year activity.

Estimated Total Trips to Mindanao by USAID and Other USG Personnel

Agency Total Monitoring

Trips per Year

Total Monitoring

Trips per Quarter

Total Non- Monitoring

Trips per Year

Total Non- Monitoring

Trips per Quarter

Total Trips per Year

Total Trips per Quarter

USAID 48 12 12 3 60 15

Other

USG

Agencies

24 6 12 3 36 9

TOTAL 72 18 24 6 96 24

The level of effort for each individual field trip will be determined at the time of planning and will be customized according to the individual field trip’s scope, purpose and location. As an example, a USAID project monitoring visit in Cotabato City that involves two staff who will travel to at least three sites within the city may need at least two (2) vehicles and drivers and one (1) logistics/security coordinator for a successful field visit. However, the IP may use its experience to ensure the required number of cars and drivers are appropriate.

The IP may use its experience to provide the necessary staff and level of effort to provide the services. The proposed levels should be supported by a budget narrative and justification, which will be submitted to the COR for approval.

In addition to providing logistics, security data collection and other administrative services, the IP must provide the following to the COR :

1. Quarterly Reports, to be determined by USAID.

2. Bi-weekly security activity and analysis reports.

3. Timely alerts (using various communication media) and actionable recommendations, as appropriate, should problems be identified in surveillance and reconnaissance work.

4. Maps detailing the specific locations of USAID projects in Mindanao.

5. Final report that documents lessons learned and recommendations for future actions in implementing the above tasks.

6. As requested by USAID, monitoring reports of field inspection of program activities, as feasible, with emphasis on assuring that work is carried out in the quantity and quality specified.

7. Performance Management Plan (PMP), as described below.

Item 002 - MISSION BUY IN - This Item 002 will be for additional trips or services, such as requests for services from other USG agencies, VIP visits or other related services that may arise for the broader USAID Philippines & Mongolia Mission that are not covered in the projected LOE for Item 001.

Item 003 - PAPUA NEW GUINEA COUNTRY (PNG) OFFICE (which includes Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu) - This Item 003 will be for on-demand services for PNG. Service requests will be limited to the requirements listed under Item 001.

DELIVERABLES

This award shall provide a range of support services for USAID, USG Officials and staff, and VIP visitors in relation to USG programs. In particular the following services are required:

REQUIREMENT 1: LOGISTICAL SUPPORT SERVICES

The IP shall provide relevant transportation services, facilitation and logistical support, communications and emergency response services needed to support USG personnel in visiting the field and performing site monitoring.

Logistical support services shall include the following:

A. Transportation services: IP shall provide transportation services for field trips of USAID and other USG agencies’ staff, and visits by VIPs, USG and USAID officials and visitors, as requested and as appropriate;

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1. Provide vehicles and necessary staff to conduct safe transportation.

2. Vetting all drivers to ensure that the required experience and qualifications are met, including passing all the security requirements established by the Embassy’s RSO.

Drivers must possess a valid driver’s license and take RSO/SEC approved drivers training for operating armored and unarmored vehicles.

3. The IP shall be responsible for managing and maintaining a fleet of USG furnished vehicles (armored and unarmored) that would need to be dispatched for regular visits conducted by USAID staff, VIPs, and other USG officials.

4. In rare instances, the IP shall be responsible for facilitating and coordinating other modes of transportation to areas that are not accessible by motor vehicle. This includes, but is not limited to, arranging navigation via helicopter, boats, etc.

B) Facilitation and Meeting Logistics: Facilitation and logistical assistance in organizing visits to project sites, meetings, workshops, and conferences, including providing short term and limited office space in the IP’s facilities.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1. The IP must organize visits to various USAID-supported activities for USAID and State Department staff and officials, and other USG visitors. This can include, but is not limited to,

● setting up appointments with key individuals;

● making hotel arrangements;

● providing transportation arrangements;

● identifying secure meeting locations; and

● other logistical needs.

The performance of this task will also involve coordination with other key personnel of USAID projects operating in areas where visits are planned.

0. In the event facilitation cannot be provided by an existing USAID Implementing Partner, at the direction of the USAID Agreement/Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), the IP must provide facilitation and logistical assistance in organizing USAID/USG events.

0. Examples of USAID/USG events can include, but are not limited to, meetings;

workshops; conferences; and, handover ceremonies between USAID/USG, implementing partners and stakeholders, including local government officials, civil society organizations, business organizations, women’s groups, community leaders, and other partners.

C) Communications: Provide means of communication between vehicles within the motor pool/motorcade and home office to alert of any issues.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1. Maintaining adequate and operable land mobile radio communications systems that meet the U.S. Embassy’s Regional Security Officer (RSO) approval in all USG vehicles.

2. IP staff will be trained on how to operate radios and emergency communication protocol. Drivers shall be provided a cell phone to facilitate emergency communications and logistics.

3. Provide security briefing for USG staff visiting sites.

D) Emergency logistical assistance: Provision of logistical assistance in the event of natural disasters or displacement due to conflict situations.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1. The Contractor must provide logistical support for USAID technical monitoring and evaluation teams, disaster assessments, and humanitarian assistance.

2) REQUIREMENT 2: SECURITY SUPPORT SERVICES

Security support services shall include the following: monitoring, assessment and reporting on ground conditions; and, the provision of and the arrangement for appropriate security-related services for visits by USAID staff and personnel of other USG agencies, VIPs, USG, and USAID officials and visitors and coordination of escorts during visits of USG officials to conflict-affected areas if required.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

Monitoring, Assessments and Reporting:

1. Conduct and disseminate regular security assessments and other security information for USAID and other USG Agencies upon request of the COR).

2. Monitoring of local print and electronic media for potential security-related news and keeping the COR informed about any changes in the security situation that could affect USAID travel and project implementation for our implementing partners in specific sites or locations within the region.

3. Monitor local news, track security incidents by location, date, and time. The Contractor will prepare daily, weekly, and monthly situation reports and share them with USAID implementing partners via the COR. The reports may include armed conflict, terrorism, crime, civil unrest, instances of malign influence, hazard, etc. that may impact successful delivery of USAID funded programs.

4. The IP must periodically conduct field-based security assessments, particularly in conflict- or post-disaster- affected environments, and prepare reports for USAID with information and findings gathered during assessments.

5. The IP must produce Security Reports on at least a bi-weekly basis, and make these reports available to USAID staff, RSO and, at the direction of the COR, other USAID implementing partners in the Philippines. These reports will provide information, analysis and evaluation of the current situation, root causes of insecurity, guidance on trouble spots to avoid possible emerging threats, and relevant cultural and political analysis, as appropriate. The IP will keep a database of this information and make it available to USAID and RSO to help provide the context of security incidents.

Coordination and Provision of Adequate Security:

1. The IP shall arrange appropriate security personnel visits of USG and provide security information and guidance regarding the security situation in USAID project areas. For security matters, the IP staff will rely on information obtained from the U.S. Embassy RSO, as well as from the police, military, and other credible sources and local contacts.

The Contractor will coordinate with RSO and the COR on movement of USG personnel.

2. Coordination with RSO, U.S. Military and Philippine government security forces at the regional, provincial and local levels.

3. The IP shall arrange security escorts for VIPs, USG and USAID officials and visitors, and USAID staff as requested in insecure areas that are determined by the RSO. The IP shall coordinate escort needs with relevant police and/or military in the area. As needed, the IP may hire qualified security professionals to provide escort services, including off-duty police forces.

4. The IP shall provide information for RSO security checks on the day of scheduled events, or if there are outstanding incidents such as bomb blasts, kidnappings of American nationals, or other insurgent/terrorist activities. The IP must outline plans demonstrating the steps they will take to safeguard and ensure secure security information to prevent accidental or deliberate information leakage beyond USG needs.

3) REQUIREMENT 3: MONITORING AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Monitoring and Information Management services shall include support in monitoring performance of on-going USAID projects in priority areas.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1) The IP must maintain a GIS-based database management system that will serve as the repository of security information, location of USAID project sites as well as other information needed in the provision of logistics services. In developing this database, the IP must coordinate with the various USAID IPs. The information must be readily available to USAID. The IP must outline plans demonstrating what steps they will take to safeguard and secure security information to prevent accidental or deliberate information leakage beyond USG needs.

2) Third Party Monitoring (TPM): At the direction of the COR, the IP must provide TPM services with emphasis on assuring that the IPs’ work is carried out in the quantity and quality specified. This will involve the conduct of field-based monitoring of project activities that would require travel to USAID-funded project sites, especially the hard to reach or USG personnel restricted areas to meet with beneficiaries and other stakeholders. At the direction of the COR, the IP shall conduct interviews, verify project activities, and report out on their findings. TPM must be done in coordination with relevant Mission technical offices and will include Mission technical and implementing partner staff, where feasible.

4) REQUIREMENT 4: PARTNER LIAISON SECURITY OFFICE (PLSO)

USAID is increasingly being called upon to implement stabilization and development in countries and regions identified as challenging environments. The security capabilities and staffing of USAID Implementing Partners (IPs) composed of s and grantees has evolved as the number of IPs operating in unstable environments has increased. Risk mitigation has become a critical element to IP security. A primary driver for IP success is the provision of timely and accurate information, specifically, information regarding the political, security and economic sectors, as well as security incidents and humanitarian events.

Partner Liaison Security Office (PLSO) Services shall include the following:

The IP shall provide PLSO personnel to assist USAID partners develop resilience to respond to shocks (political, natural disaster, eruption of violence, etc.) that could impact continuity of operations for USAID programming. The IP must provide partner liaison security services to USAID IPs that enhance collaboration and communication between partners to serve as an early warning system and enhance IP security protocols and reporting. The PLSO will also provide a communication loop back to the mission.

A. Information Sharing Platform - development of information sharing platform/ group alert system that facilitates better real time information sharing of IPs on safety and security issues such as reports of violence, criminality, or other issues affecting IPs and USAID beneficiaries resulting in changing operating conditions.

IP Tasks

The IP shall complete the following tasks:

1. Development of information sharing platforms and group alert systems for the IPs.

2. Mapping: Map clan/tribal areas, political hot-spots and alignments within the most populated IP working areas, to include personalities, decision making trees, and power structure. Mapping of infrastructure and status needed by IPs to conduct programmatic activities, to include roads, airfields, medical service locations, and communications. Provide regular map updates to USAID.

3. Tracking of social media information as it relates to the beneficiary communities to provide early warning systems to IPs and the Mission. Over time the analysis will build and provide patterns of influence that could be countered by positive programming initiatives. Flag for USAID any mis/dis-information noted that could be used to recruit, propagandize or destabilize the region.

4. Tracking information that spurs conflict (political relationships, economic drivers, etc.).

5. Track and create notification systems for instances of violence by various armed actors, road/location accessibility, and natural disasters that may prevent operations (e.g., flooding, mudslides, etc.)

6. Facilitate the creation or utilization of existing systems centralized “crowd sourced” information networks for IPs to utilize in support of security decision making.

7. Conduct consumer price index (CPI) exercises within the beneficiary community to identify and track economic issues.

8. The IP must provide briefings to the Mission and RSO on emerging issues and the current security status, and hold weekly or bi-weekly calls with the Mission to discuss issues, with quarterly in-person meetings if possible.

9. The IP must provide serious incidents reports to the Mission.

Philippines Specific: Tracking and reporting on political alignment within the BARMM and surrounding areas with an emphasis on preparation for the pending 2025 elections.

B) Security Planning and Training

At the direction of the USAID COR:

1. Provide training and assist USAID IPs to develop continuity of operations plans (COOP) for the IPs in the event that they are stranded or unable to program due to natural and man-made disasters or in the event of civil unrest.

2. Create a system for Review of IP security plans, advise on physical security and how existing plans can be better enhanced, and help plan rehearsals of IP Emergency Action Plans (EAP). Provide training to USAID COR on what constitutes a quality COOP/EAP/security plan.

3. Help plan rehearsals for IP COOP/ Emergency Action Plans.

4. The IP must provide security consultation services to USAID IPs as requested by the COR, on developing their individual security protocol when implementing USAID programs in conflict-affected areas. As requested by USAID, the IP must travel to other implementing partners’ offices and guest houses to provide advice on improving security measures, security plans, or security awareness training.

5. The IP must accompany USAID implementing partners for an initial security assessment of program locations to gauge security considerations and provide guidance.

6. Assist the Mission with Significant Issues reports on various areas in support of Mission visits

7. Conduct site visits to field sites for security assessments.

8. Provide advice on physical security and annual virtual security best practices webinar to

USAID IPs.

9. Assist IPs to come up with plans to build the capacity of sub-partners security and COOP planning. Currently there is little planning by IP sub-grantees who need information on basic security practices such as risk mitigation, movement plans, communication and first aid.

10. Budget for training required by USAID Office of Security (SEC) such as Hostile

Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) to be provided by outside instructors.

Philippines Specific:

● Align with OSAC to develop a network of transport companies in order to gain situational awareness of routes primarily used across Mindanao.

● Work with the Filipino security sector to assist IPs in avoiding “Red-Tagging”.

Papua New Guinea Specific:

● Providing information regarding preparation for major activities. For example, pre-election planning to consider potential violence, hotspots, and risk mitigation measures.

● Consider consulting with religious organizations, including missionary groups, for information sharing.

● Consider establishing a “Women in Security” internship program to assist with women entering the workforce.

Other Considerations

1. Disaster Response: USAID supports the Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) in providing humanitarian assistance to vulnerable families and communities affected by disasters.

The assistance includes emergency and early recovery programs implemented through partner organizations. USAID also mobilizes its various implementing partners to assist in delivering humanitarian assistance. Hence, project implementation frameworks of partners are encouraged to have the agility to dispatch resources, re-align budgets and support the rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance to disaster affected areas and vulnerable populations, and help expedite social and economic recovery. The scope and deliverables expected from the re-alignment of project resources will be mutually agreed by USAID/Philippines and implementing partners.

2. Geographic Information System (GIS) and Standard Property Rights Clauses - It is necessary that USAID archive activity-related data to ensure that at the conclusion of the award, the Agency will still have access to the data. Data that are collected and produced under the activity must be stored in a database management system or other structured data file format.

This data will be provided in whole to USAID for further analysis and dissemination.

3. Coordination and Collaboration: The IP may need to coordinate and/or collaborate with elements of the U.S. Military stationed in Mindanao. As needed, other USAID implementing partners will also coordinate with the IP in arranging logistics and security support for USAID staff, U.S. Embassy or U.S. Government colleagues that travel to Mindanao, especially to areas in BARMM or the Sulu Archipelago.

4. Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Analysis: The GESI framework aims to ensure that the activity will afford women with equal and equitable opportunities, social security and https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hlDPyigTRARrcsCTtFngmfverf6Gsvrc/edit protection in all aspects of development, regardless of their disability, ethnicity, gender, religion, specific needs, socio-cultural-economic status, and political beliefs. In procuring support services and implementation of this activity, there should be no barrier to equal participation of women and men. All opportunities under this activity will be open to men and women.

5. Environmental Compliance: The activity is expected to comply with the standard USAID provisions on environmental compliance. In addition to these minimum environmental requirements, the IP is also expected to exercise due diligence in identifying project activities for which greater environment-friendly interventions could be practiced (e.g. vehicle emissions, disposal of used oil and other vehicle consumables, etc.).

6. USAID’s Code of Conduct on Counter-Trafficking in Persons (CTIP): Safeguarding beneficiaries and their communities from harm is a core tenet of USAID’s programming approach. Safeguarding measures include both prevention as well as response-oriented measures that are integrated across all USAID operations, from headquarters to the field. As part of its commitment to safeguarding against human trafficking, USAID requires its staff, s, subs, grantees, and subgrantees to abide by Code of Conduct requirements that prohibit engaging in behaviors that facilitate or support TIP.

7. USAID Management: The principal responsibility for management of the contract will lie with the COR). For effective communication, the CO, Executive Officer, and the Embassy’s RSO will be kept abreast of developments in the implementation and key issues affecting this contract. However, only the USAID COR, acting on authority of the CO, can task the IP to provide services. All requests for logistics support must come through the USAID COR. Any activities not receiving USAID COR approval will be unallowable. Note that the specific authorities delegated to the cognizant COR by the CO are detailed in the COR’s Delegation Letter. Anything outside these authorities require CO approval.

8. Betterment: USAID is providing an opportunity for offerors to outline specific aspects of their proposed solution that exceed or enhance this SOW and the value those aspects bring to the USG. If the IP’s proposed solution exceeds any of the activity requirements in a way that is meaningful to the USG, the IP shall provide information explaining the promise of the betterment and the betterment’s value to the USG. Specificity is strongly encouraged; vague statements will not be helpful. USAID reserves the right to incorporate proposed betterment innovations into the final scope of the award.

9. Performance Management Plan: The IP will develop a Performance Management Plan (PMP), which will include a monitoring and evaluation plan, within the first three months following contract award and before major implementation actions are underway. The PMP will describe the agreed upon framework of goals, outcomes, and outputs for this activity. It must be noted that because the outputs of this activity are services, its outcome (e.g., “efficient and effective output delivery by USAID activities in Mindanao facilitated”) is linked to outputs of the various USAID activities it will provide services to. In addition, the PMP will elaborate indicators, baselines and targets defined for each, which will be gender-disaggregated where appropriate. Where projects or activities are implemented in particular locations, the PMP must include a discussion on ways to map and track the type of intervention by project component and fund use. As possible and appropriately, this could be done by municipality, province, and/or region. The IP is encouraged to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in monitoring efforts to ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are as cost effective as possible.

Appendix 2: Required Response Template

Respondent Name:

Title:

Organiza� on:

Email:

A. USAID/Philippines welcomes input and comments in response to the ques�ons listed below. While there are no limits on the length of submissions accepted, we value concise, issue-specific responses. Please do not submit any proprietary or confiden�al informa�on. USAID/Philippines will not provide answers to any ques�ons submi�ed in response to this request.

1. Indicate your applicable Small Business Category(s) (select from below). Note this informa� on is considered procurement sensi� ve and will not be shared with the public.

Only the USAID acquisi� on planning team will have access to responses and informa� on gathered from this No� ce.

□ 8(a)

□ HUBZone Historically Underu� lized Business Zones

□ WOSB Women Owned Small Business

□ EDWOSB Economically Disadvantaged Women Owned Small Business

□ SDVOSB Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business

□ VOSB Veteran Owned Small Business

□ SDB Small Disadvantaged Business

□ SB Small Business

□ Other (Large Business, University, NGO etc.): _______________________________

2. Federal Supply Schedules, GWACs, IDIQs (USAID or GSA) - Indicate if your organiza� on is on a Federal Supply Schedule, GWACs, or IDIQ (e.g., Professional Services Schedule (PSS), OASIS, etc.)

3. Organiza� onal Capabili� es rela� ve to the dra. SOW – Please provide your tailored, relevant organiza�onal capabili�es rela�ve to the dra� SOW. Respondents may include organiza�onal informa�on and relevant past experience within the programma�c and geographic scope of the SOW.

4. Do you have any addi�onal feedback or recommenda�ons on the dra� SOW as a whole?

Please limit to your three most substan�ve comments.

B. RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS

Responses to this RFI must be submi� ed as a Microso� Word or Adobe document, forma� ed with one-inch margins and 12 pt. Calibri font, limited to no more than five (5) pages total.

Statement of Work Logistics Support