Re-elected Leyte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez promised that Congress will fully support President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and the DSWD’s “Walang Gutom” Program. This includes giving enough funds in the proposed 2026 national budget.
As Speaker of the 19th Congress, Romualdez said no Filipino should go hungry in a country full of opportunities.
“This is not just a project of President Bongbong Marcos. His vision of a hunger-free Philippines is a promise of dignity, care, and real change for families who struggle to afford food,” Romualdez said.
His statement came after the DSWD announced plans to expand the program from helping 300,000 households to 750,000 poor families by next year. The program gives ₱3,000 in monthly food credits through an electronic card, which can be used to buy food from approved stores.
Romualdez praised President Marcos for making hunger eradication a key part of the “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) vision.
“You can see the President’s heart in this program. Fighting hunger is not just a policy for him—it’s a personal mission. No Filipino family should be left behind,” he said.
He also highlighted the teamwork between the DSWD and the Department of Agriculture (DA) in the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program, which offers rice at ₱20 per kilo in selected stores—especially for “Walang Gutom” beneficiaries.
“While this price is not available everywhere, it is a big help for families in need,” Romualdez explained.
He said expanding the program means supporting farmers, keeping food prices low, and teaching families about nutrition.
“If we want to end hunger, we must help farmers produce food, make sure prices are affordable, and educate families. Aid is not enough—it should lead to progress,” he said.
Romualdez called on lawmakers to support the 2026 budget to give the DSWD and DA enough resources for the program.
“This is what makes ‘Walang Gutom’ special. It combines care with smart solutions, quick help with long-term growth,” he said. “This is how we build a New Philippines—by helping those who need it most with real solutions.”
Romualdez said Congress is ready to take strong action to end hunger for millions of Filipinos.
“If we work together, we can make ‘No Hunger’ a reality. This is for our country. This is for every Filipino,” he said.
