Pasay city: Over 2,000 metric tons of rice were handed over by the Republic of Korea to the Philippine government to enhance the country's disaster preparedness, support peace initiatives in Mindanao, and aid in securing long-term food supply amidst ongoing climate challenges.
According to Philippines News Agency, the turnover ceremony took place at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) National Resources Operations Center in Pasay City, where South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa highlighted rice's significance in Southeast Asia as a cultural symbol and national pride. In the Philippines, rice bears a profound meaning, being intimately linked to identity, survival, and social stability.
Ambassador Lee emphasized that the rice donation symbolizes friendship and solidarity between South Korea and the Philippines, viewing it as more than just a donation to the Filipino people. He remarked, "We are not just speaking of bags of rice-we are talking about resilience, food security, and esprit de corps at a time when we are all learning to live in a new normal."
Lee also addressed the global challenge of the climate crisis, sharing South Korea's experience with unprecedented torrential rains and expressing solidarity with the Filipino people affected by recent typhoons and monsoon rains.
From the total donation, 1,632 metric tons will be allocated to the DSWD to strengthen its emergency relief operations against typhoons and climate-related disasters, while 384 metric tons will support peace and development initiatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The South Korean Ambassador praised the DSWD's efforts and programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Walang Gutom program, which reflect the Philippines' dedication to supporting its vulnerable citizens.
Previously, South Korea contributed 400 metric tons in 2022 and 750 metric tons in 2023, with plans to provide 4,000 metric tons in 2025 through the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR). The recent bilateral donation signifies Seoul's increasing engagement and partnership with Manila.
Lee highlighted past cooperation with the World Food Programme (WFP), including South Korea's USD500,000 humanitarian aid to the Bicol Region for communities affected by Typhoons Kristine and Leon in 2024. He assured the continued role of the WFP in ensuring the rice reaches those in need.
"Time-honored friends, our two nations have consistently supported each other, especially in times of hardship," Lee stated, reaffirming South Korea's commitment to supporting the Philippines in disaster response, climate adaptation, food security, and peace efforts.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian attended the ceremonial turnover alongside Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe and WFP Country Director Regis Chapman.
