Malacañang vowed to address the rising hunger incidence in the country following the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, which showed that 27.2% of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months.
This marks an increase from the 25.9% recorded in December 2024 and is the highest rate since the 30.7% reported during the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2020.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is intensifying efforts to combat hunger through the “Walang Gutom” Program (WGP), formerly the Food Stamp Program.
According to the DSWD, the WGP initiative currently provides 300,000 food-poor households, or approximately 1.5 million individuals, with ₱3,000 in monthly food credits.
“The government will carefully study the survey results to identify areas where hunger persists,” Castro said on Monday. “We will ensure that any gaps in assistance are promptly addressed,” she added.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding the WGP to reach more families, especially in critical areas where hunger remains prevalent.
“By 2027, the agency targets to assist 750,000 food-poor families, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a hunger-free Philippines,” Dumlao said.
The Walang Gutom Kitchen, located in Pasay City, continues to provide free hot meals to families and individuals living on the streets. This initiative reduces food wastage by turning surplus food from hotels, restaurants, and organizations into nutritious meals for those in need.
Dumlao noted that hunger rates in Metro Manila, where the WGP was first piloted, did not increase — a reflection that these programs are making progress.
Beyond direct food assistance, the DSWD is also promoting better public nutrition through innovative programs like the “WGP Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge,” launched in February.
This culinary contest encourages families to create nutritious meals using ingredients provided by the WGP, promoting healthier eating habits and maximizing available resources.
“These initiatives complement the WGP by ensuring that families not only have access to food but also understand how to make the most of their resources to maintain a healthy diet,” Dumlao said.
Through a combination of food assistance and nutrition education, coupled with the cooperation with other agencies and the private sector, the DSWD continues to work toward a hunger-free and healthier Philippines.
Castro assured the public that the government remains committed to alleviating hunger and improving food access across the country. “We will continue working to ensure no Filipino goes hungry,” she said.