PBBM wants no anomalies in Food Stamp Program implementation

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday ordered all government agencies to ensure that there are no traces of anomalies in the administration of the Food Stamp Program.

The Chief Executive made the instruction on Wednesday as he launched the Food Stamp Program in the Caraga region as part of the government's efforts to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition among Filipinos.

"I instruct the relevant government agencies to collaborate for the better implementation of this Food Stamp Program. Let's make sure that there are no traces of anomalies in the administration of our projects," Marcos said in a speech at the launch event.

Marcos emphasized the importance of both food supply and quality. He added that the Food Stamp Program is not just about ensuring that people have enough to eat, but also that they have access to healthy and affordable food.

"We often talk about the need for an adequate food supply, and that's true," the President said.

"But it's not just about food supply; the food we provide to our fellow citizens must also be nutritious. So, in the Food Stamp Program, we carefully consider the needs of each individual, and that's what we provide through our Food Stamps."

He also urged beneficiaries to use their electronic vouchers wisely.
"I hope you use your E.B.T. cards wisely," the President said. "The government is your partner not only in pursuing your dreams but also in achieving them."

The Food Stamp Program is currently in the pilot stage, but Marcos said that it will be expanded within the next month or so. The goal is to benefit 30,000 families in the next phase of the rollout.

When asked about the assessment of the Food Stamp Program in the months since its launch, Marcos Jr. said that the results so far have been promising.

"The key is always how to make it accessible to ordinary citizens," Marcos told reporters in a media interview. "So, the technology needs to be sufficiently good to make it easy for anyone to learn how to use it," he added.

Marcos likewise thanked the World Food Programme for its assistance in developing the Food Stamp Program.

"We received assistance from the UN through the World Food Programme, as well as support from France and the ADB," Marcos said. "These have been our partners in developing the Food Stamp Program."

Beneficiaries in the Caraga region received P3,000 food credits. Data broken down, 50 percent is meant for carbohydrate-rich food, 30 percent is for protein, and 20 percent is for fruits and vegetables.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development administered food stamps. In May, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian proposed the proposal, which was inaugurated in July.
In Surigao, Gatchalian joined the start.