Iloilo: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched its Walang Gutom Program, highlighted by the ceremonial tapping of the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card in the municipality of Batad in Iloilo.

According to Philippines News Agency, the program targets 290 household beneficiaries, each entitled to receive food assistance through their EBT cards worth PHP3,000, the DSWD said in a statement. 'The Walang Gutom Program is more than just food assistance - it is a symbol of hope and progress, ensuring no child goes to bed hungry and no family is left behind,' DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Operations Katherine Joy Lamprea said.

Beneficiaries span 42 municipalities, the City of Passi, and Iloilo City. Batad Mayor Elvira Alarcon urged recipients to use the aid wisely to enhance their families' nutrition and well-being. 'This initiative is a big step to ensure that no resident of Batad will go hungry,' she said.

The DSWD partnered with two local retailers along with a Sustainable Livelihood Program association, to ensure smooth program implementation. Carlito Meliciano, 87, a beneficiary from Barangay Tanao, expressed gratitude for the support, which will help him care for his grandchildren.

The program also covers Iloilo and Antique, with PHP42.57 million allocated for food credits.