The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office-2, Cagayan Valley, recently inked a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with San Mariano’s local government. This MOU sets the stage for the launch of the innovative Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program (FSP) in the region, marking a significant milestone in the fight against malnutrition and hunger. This historical event took place on January 15th, with the DSWD represented by Undersecretary for Innovations, Eduardo M. Punay.
Undersecretary Punay expressed the department’s commitment and anticipation in working with the local government of San Mariano for the pilot implementation. The FSP isn’t only a solution to the scarcity of food and resources, but it also tackles the pressing issue of undernourished individuals in the community. He emphasized the department’s intent to serve Filipinos in all stages of life and looks forward to the success of this collaboration with San Mariano’s local government.
San Mariano’s Support and Anticipation for the Food Stamp Program
Edgar Go, the Mayor of San Mariano, appreciated the DSWD for selecting their municipality as one of the pilot areas for the FSP. He stressed that the program benefits extend beyond the immediate beneficiaries to the entire San Mariano community. Farmers and micro-entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to contribute to the community while enhancing their livelihoods.
San Mariano, Isabela is a Geographically Isolated Area (GIDA), making it a suitable location for the pilot phase of the FSP due to its constituents’ need for food assistance. The kickoff for the program in San Mariano is slated for the last week of January. The MOU also had the presence of Regional Director Lucia Suyu-Alan, Assistant Regional Director for Operations Franco G. Lopez, and Municipal Vice Mayor Dean Anthony G. Domalanta.
Food Stamp DSWD: A Vision for Nutritional Security
The Food Stamp Program is a pioneering initiative by the Marcos administration, designed to alleviate involuntary hunger among impoverished households. Beneficiaries will receive Php3000 worth of food credits in the form of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These cards can be used to purchase nutrition-rich food items, promoting a healthier lifestyle for the underprivileged.
Aside from San Mariano, other pilot sites for the FSP include Tondo in Manila, Siargao Island, Garchitorena in Camarines Sur, and Parang in Maguindanao. These strategically chosen locations represent a step forward in combating food security issues in the Philippines.
Video: Philippine Social Welfare Secretary Discusses Food Stamp Project and Social Welfare Measures
Here is a video from ANC News featuring Secretary Rolando Bautista discussing the Food Stamp Program and other social welfare measures being implemented by the government. The food stamp program is set to expand, reaching out to 1 million beneficiaries who are among the poorest per capita Filipinos. This initiative aims to provide essential assistance to those in need, ensuring access to nutritious food and helping uplift their quality of life.
The video highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in the country, especially during times of crisis such as natural disasters
Summary
All in all, the Food Stamp Program is a good initiative that aims to combat involuntary hunger and malnutrition among impoverished households in the Philippines. The recent MOU signing between DSWD and San Mariano’s local government paves the way for the program’s pilot implementation in the municipality, with plans to expand to other pilot areas soon.
The government’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and malnutrition is evident through initiatives like the FSP, which brings hope for a better future for all Filipinos. With this program, not only will beneficiaries benefit, but also the whole community as it promotes livelihood opportunities.
Check out the full news article as shared on the official Facebook Page of DSWD: