At least 1,000 beneficiaries from Albay were given food baskets under the Walang Gutom Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 (Bicol).
In a report on Wednesday, DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio said 800 low-income beneficiaries were provided with nutritious and quality food items from Dec. 22 to 23, while the rest will receive theirs before New Year.
He said the food program intended not just to help address food insecurity among vulnerable households, but to ensure that their table is not left empty during the most special day of the season.
Lolita Parrar Pesonila, 62, a housewife and a mother of four from Barangay 30 Pigcale, considered the food basket not just a food assistance, but also an early Christmas gift.
“This is such a huge blessing for us, especially with the upcoming Christmas. Very helpful. Thank you so much,” she said.
Pesonila was among the initial beneficiaries from various areas of Albay who were able to redeem their food items. The food baskets were also distributed in Legazpi City, Manito, Malinao, Bacacay, Sto. Domingo, Tabaco, Malilipot, Tiwi, Camalig, Guinobatan, Daraga, Ligao, Pio Duran, and Libon.
Beneficiaries from Oas, Rapu-Rapu, and Polangui are expected to redeem their food items before Jan. 1.
Laurio said the initiative ensures food availability and accessibility, particularly for low-income families, as well as to promote proper nutrition during the holiday season. (PNA)