CEBU CITY — Beneficiaries in Cebu and Negros Oriental provinces have begun using their food stamps under the national government's 'Walang Gutom 2027 Food Stamp Program (WGP),' a social welfare official said on Tuesday.
Shalaine Marie Lucero, the regional director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), reported that the program's first redemption event took place on July 18.
In Cordova town, Cebu, 159 beneficiaries used their food stamps, while 773 individuals redeemed theirs in Mabinay, Negros Oriental.
The redemption in Cordova was attended by DSWD Assistant Secretary Krunima Antonio Escudero III, who emphasized the importance of adhering to the program's guidelines.
'This program is truly wonderful because it is not just a dole out; you also have a part to play. You need to take action to continue receiving the benefits through this program,' Lucero quoted Escudero.
Lucero also urged beneficiaries to use their electronic benefit transfer cards properly. Each card is loaded with P3,000 in food credits from DSWD-WGP, which can be used to purchase food items.
The credits allocated are 50 percent (P1,500) for carbohydrates, 30 percent (P900) for proteins, and 20 percent (P600) for fruits and vegetables.
The DSWD is currently assessing local retailers and working to expedite their accreditation to ensure smooth operations of the program.
Earlier this month, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rexlon Gatchalian said they will use QR codes to enhance social protection and ensure aid reaches the right beneficiaries, including this program.
This move follows Cebu province's successful program implementations and aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s Walang Gutom (No Hunger) 2027 program, launched at Central Visayas at the Cebu Provincial Capitol.
Gatchalian noted that the QR code system will replace the old manual process, which was prone to errors and inefficiencies.