In a significant move to address both food wastage and hunger, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched the ‘Walang Gutom’ Kitchen in Pasay City. This initiative, inaugurated on December 16, 2024, is a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors, aiming to reduce food waste and provide meals to those in need across Metro Manila, with plans for future expansion nationwide.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the kitchen’s role in adhering to the Food Donation Act of 2009, encouraging the donation of surplus food from the private sector to be distributed to the hungry. The kitchen, set up in a repurposed former Philippine offshore gaming operator hub, not only serves as a food bank but also integrates three of DSWD’s innovative programs: the Pag-Abot Program, Walang Gutom Program, and Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program.
The Pag-Abot Program will offer food and basic necessities to those in need, while the Walang Gutom Kitchen will manage individualized case assessments and interventions for homeless individuals. Additionally, the Tara, Basa! initiative will provide educational and developmental activities, including parenting education and character-building, in a dedicated multipurpose facility.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos joined Secretary Gatchalian and private sector partners at the launch, actively participating in distributing hot meals to the beneficiaries. The event was also attended by Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano and several DSWD officials, highlighting the government’s commitment to tackling hunger and food waste.