World Food Day’s Call to Action Finds a Home in the Philippines
As the world marks World Food Day on October 16, the global theme—“Hand in hand for better foods and a better future”—resonates deeply with the Philippines. A nation blessed with fertile land, abundant seas, and resilient farmers still grapples with hunger, malnutrition, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. The day’s observance, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), serves as a reminder that transforming agrifood systems is not a luxury but a necessity for dignity, culture, and peace.
Local Realities Behind a Global Theme
In the Philippines, household food security remains a national priority amid volatility in prices, access to credit, and disruptions across supply chains. A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted in late June and released in August showed that 16.1 percent of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger—going hungry with nothing to eat—at least once in the prior three months. These numbers underscore the persistent gap between abundance in the country and access to nutritious food for all.
Government action is underpinned by a clear, shared responsibility. The Department of Agriculture (DA) marked World Food Day with renewed emphasis on unity and collective effort. The DA’s theme—“bridge gaps, combine strengths, and collectively build a brighter and food-secure future”—highlights the need for collaboration between policy, practice, and people on the ground.
Progress and Programs Driving Change
Several initiatives are aimed at raising farm productivity, improving access to food, and strengthening rural livelihoods. The National Rice Program seeks to boost yield and resilience, ensuring a steady staple for Filipino households. The Kadiwa ng Pangulo program enhances direct access to affordable, locally produced goods, helping bridge the gap between farmers and consumers. Urban and community gardening projects expand local food production, making nutritious options more readily available in cities where space is limited.
Partnerships with international organizations, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and FAO, extend the reach of these efforts. By connecting local producers with institutional markets and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, the Philippines aims to increase productivity while reducing exposure to climate shocks—factors that threaten crops, fisheries, and rural incomes.
Beyond Government: A Shared Responsibility
FAO’s leadership in this year’s observance is a reminder that agricultural transformation requires all sectors—from private enterprise to households. Businesses can invest in sustainable supply chains, cut food waste, and prioritize local sourcing that supports smallholders. Food manufacturers can innovate with healthier, climate-smart products. Retailers can foster fair trade practices and improve transparency in sourcing, helping consumers connect with the origin of their food.
At the individual and community level, actions matter. Choosing local produce supports Filipino farmers and reduces the environmental footprint of food transport. Reducing waste at home, planning meals, and adopting sustainable diets can collectively ease demand pressure. Schools play a vital role by incorporating nutrition education, instilling lifelong values about food security and social responsibility in the next generation.
A Vision for a Resilient Agrifood System
As FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu has noted, the actions we take today will shape the future: we must “produce more with less.” For the Philippines, this means intensifying climate-resilient farming, modernizing agricultural infrastructure, and strengthening farmers’ cooperatives to better access credit and technology. It also means building inclusive food systems that protect dignity and nourish culture, ensuring that every Filipino has reliable access to safe, affordable, and nutritious foods even in the face of mounting climate pressures and economic shocks.
Onward, Together
None of these efforts will succeed alone. The private sector, government, communities, and individuals must work hand in hand to ensure no Filipino is left hungry, and that food remains a source of pride, dignity, and hope for generations to come. The call is clear: act together for better foods and a better life, today and for the future.
