Food and Hope

“Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” the theme of this year’s World Food Day, reflects the core mission of the Walang Gutom Program — to reach and support every Filipino family, no matter where they live. Whether on remote islands, in the mountains, or in hard-to-reach communities, the DSWD remains committed to delivering assistance and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against hunger.

One of the many grateful beneficiaries is the family of Marciflor C. Nasonaso from the town of Belison, Antique. According to Marciflor, the Walang Gutom Program has been a tremendous blessing to their family, especially in providing daily meals and school snacks for their children.

Marciflor is a homemaker, while her husband, Arley Baleña, 31, works tirelessly in the fields to support their needs. Since Arley only finished elementary school, his job opportunities are limited, making farm labor their primary source of livelihood.

During the bolo season — a type of bamboo native to the Philippines known for its strength and versatility — Arley supports the family by making pawid, materials used for roofing and walls of houses. Despite the challenges, the couple continues to persevere to meet their family’s daily needs.

Marciflor also shared that one of their struggles is Arley’s shyness. Because of this, she often accompanies him to town during Food Redemption Activities, especially when interviews or verification processes are required. She explained that Arley prefers staying close to their two children rather than venturing into town.

Redeeming their ₱3,000 worth of food credits is no easy task. After claiming their goods, they still need to carry a sack of rice all the way back to their barangay in Mojon. From town, they take a habal-habal (motorcycle) to Lakaron, and from there walk for almost 30 minutes to reach their home — carrying all the food items themselves. Their journey includes crossing two rivers, which becomes even more difficult during the rainy season when they must wait for the water level to drop before they can cross safely.

But despite these hardships, the family remains strong and hopeful. For them, every sack of rice and every meal on their table is proof that there are programs that truly care — and that the government continues to work to ensure that no Filipino goes hungry, wherever they may be./LCMondana