The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations led the 2024 World Food Day celebration in the Philippines on October 16 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, highlighting the country's commitment to achieving zero hunger.
"My administration remains steadfast in boosting the agriculture sector alongside various social welfare programs for those who are most vulnerable to hunger and malnutrition. While we have made commendable strides in these fronts, having this day to shed light on the gravity of the issue that we generate greater participation is a crucial step towards achieving our goals for the people," President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in a video message.
This year's theme, "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future. Leave No One Behind," emphasizes that access to adequate and nutritious food is a fundamental human right.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., in a recorded message, said that with the administration's "Bagong Pilipinas" brand of governance, the DA has always dedicated its resources to attaining food safety and security, climate resilience, agricultural sustainability, and economic development, among other goals.
"Moving forward, the department is committed to its mandate as the country's primary agency for agricultural development. It will continue to support initiatives of not only the FAO, but also of every individual, government agency, and institution in ensuring that no one is denied of his or her right to food," he said.
FAO Country Representative Lionel Henri Valentin Dabbadie commended the DA's work and urged every government office, civil society organization, the private sector, communities, and stakeholders to accelerate efforts and recommit to the urgent task of meeting the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Senator Cynthia Villar also shared the policies and measures she sponsored in the senate for the welfare of the agriculture and fisheries sector and to promote sustainability and food security for every Filipino.
During the event, the DA officials led by Undersecretary Allan Umali also recognized the 2024 Nationwide World Food Day On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest National Winners and the 2024 DA Search for Outstanding Rural Women Finalists.
"I enjoin the entire nation, especially those belonging to the industries that are vital to producing and delivering foods across the country to use this year's theme as a guidepost in continuing our endeavors. When we join hands to uphold our peoples' right to food then we also provide them with a better life and a better future," President Marcos stressed.