ADB grants $400-M loan to fight hunger in Philippines

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD400 million loan to help the Philippines tackle hunger, food insecurity, and poor nutrition through the government’s Walang Gutom (Zero Hunger) Food Stamp program.

The funding will provide monthly electronic food vouchers to 750,000 food-insecure households nationwide, enabling them to buy healthy and nutritious food. 

“With nearly half of Filipinos unable to afford a healthy diet, food vouchers are essential for poor and vulnerable households,” said Pavit Ramachandran, ADB Deputy Director General for Southeast Asia.

Beneficiaries will also join monthly nutrition education sessions to address malnutrition and promote healthier eating habits. 

The project will further boost the government’s capacity for shock-responsive social protection, ensuring swift aid during disasters and economic crises.

The initiative is cofinanced by the Agence Française de Développement with a €200 million (USD220 million) loan and the OPEC Fund for International Development with USD150 million.

ADB earlier helped pilot the e-voucher system in five locations from December 2023 to July 2024, in partnership with the World Food Program.