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21February
Hajiara Pandi of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-12 and Bangsamoro Labor Minister Muslimin Sema sealed their agreement with a handshake to cooperate in the implementation of the Walang Gutom Program 2027 in the autonomous region. The agreement was reached during a meeting in Cotabato City Feb.18, 2025. /Photo courtesy Philstar GLOBAL
DSWD-12, Bangsamoro Labor Ministry join forces to combat hunger in BARMM
- Feb 21, 2025
- Taher G. Solaiman
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During a dialogue on Tuesday, Feb. 18, ranking officials from the DSWD Region 12, led by Hajiara Pandi, and the Bangsamoro Ministry of Labor and Employment (MoLE-BARMM), headed by Minister Muslimin Sema, agreed to cooperate in implementing the program.
Collaboration to Enhance Program Reach
The MoLE-BARMM, with its focus on labor sector welfare, employment generation, and prevention of child labor, will work alongside the DSWD to ensure the program's effectiveness.
“We shall do our best to help employees and officials of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Region 12 implement this program in Cotabato City and other areas in the autonomous region,” Sema said on Wednesday.
Pandi, focal person for Region 12 of the Walang Gutom Program 2027, stated that they will connect with local communities in Cotabato City and other areas in the BARMM through the MoLE-BARMM and the regional social services ministry.
Walang Gutom Program 2027 Aims to Combat Hunger
Launched in July 2024, the Walang Gutom Program 2027, also known as the Strategic Transfer and Alternative Measures Program (Food Stamp), aims to decrease hunger among low-income households.
The program, initially launched in administrative regions, provides qualified beneficiaries with P3,000 in periodic monetary assistance through an electronic benefit transfer card. This enables recipients to purchase food supplies at DSWD partner establishments.
Targeting Former Combatants and Vulnerable Groups
MoLE-BARMM officials highlighted the program's potential in assisting former members of Moro fronts who have signed peace pacts with the national government. These individuals, often low-income farmers, drivers, and workers in various sectors, will benefit from the program's financial assistance.
The collaboration between the DSWD and MoLE-BARMM represents a significant step towards addressing food security challenges in the BARMM. This partnership aims to create a more equitable and sustainable future for vulnerable communities in the region.
Time in Cotabato
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