President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. | PHOTO: Screengrabbed from Bongbong Marcos’ Facebook live
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to achieving zero hunger in the Philippines during the launch of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Joint Memorandum Circular on Monday.
In his speech, Marcos said that “no Filipino should go to bed hungry.”
He also outlined a plan to enhance food security by linking local farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers to larger markets, which would help secure their income and increase access to nutritious food.
“We gather to renew a promise: that no Filipino should go to bed hungry and that no community will be overlooked in our fight against poverty,” Marcos said.
The President then called on all government sectors to support the EPAHP’s goal of zero hunger through sustainable agriculture and improved access to food and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Through the EPAHP initiative, the government has reported generating over P200 million in sales and contracts, benefiting 122 community-based organizations collaborating with government feeding programs.
A 14-member steering committee will be established to oversee the program, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, to ensure leadership, coordination, and accountability.
Marcos acknowledged the contributions of the 34 organizations, including national and international partners, that have joined the initiative.
“We have yet to achieve zero hunger. But your dedication to this mission assures me that we are all united in this effort, ready to build a better nation for all, especially for those who need it the most,” he said. — Stefani Tacugue, INQUIRER.NET trainee