Two key government agencies have come together with a shared mission: tackling hunger in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
In a meeting on Tuesday, February 18, in Cotabato City, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 12, led by Hajiara Pandi, joined forces with Muslimin Sema, the Minister of Labor for Bangsamoro. Their goal? To launch the Walang Gutom Program 2027, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fighting hunger in the region.
Hunger and Food Security
According to officials from the Ministry of Labor and Employment-BARMM, the program’s objectives align perfectly with their own efforts to promote welfare, create jobs, and combat child labor across the region.
They highlighted how their existing offices could seamlessly support the DSWD’s food security goals.
Pandi, who serves as the focal person for Region 12 on the Walang Gutom Program 2027, emphasized their commitment to reaching local communities.
Through collaboration with MoLE-BARMM and the regional Ministry of Social Services, the program will extend its benefits to Cotabato City and surrounding areas, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against hunger.
Launched in July 2024, the Walang Gutom Program 2027 (also known as the Strategic Transfer and Alternative Measures Program or Food Stamp) is an ambitious initiative to tackle hunger in low-income households.
The program provides eligible families with P3,000 in financial assistance every month, distributed via an electronic benefit transfer card. Each beneficiary can use this amount to buy food supplies at a partner store.
Support for the Program
Minister Sema voiced strong support for the program.
“We will do everything we can to help the DSWD in Region 12 successfully roll out this initiative.”
MoLE-BARMM officials also believe the program can also support the reintegration of former members of Moro insurgent groups into society.
Many of these individuals are low-income farmers, drivers, and workers in commercial and construction sectors. They stand to benefit from the program’s food provisions as they transition back to civilian life.
This collaboration marks a critical step toward creating a stronger, more resilient community in the Bangsamoro region. With the program, the region is one step closer to ensuring that no family has to go to bed hungry.
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