Dapa, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) successfully launched the Walang Gutom Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge today, February 28, 2025, at Dapa Gymnasium, Surigao del Norte, highlighting the culinary skills of five beneficiaries of the Walang Gutom Program who have completed their Nutrition Education Sessions.
The event was attended by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, alongside DSWD Undersecretary Eduardo Punay, Assistant Secretary Baldr Bringas, DSWD Field Office Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga, Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul Parajes, and staff from the National Program Management Office, reinforcing the government’s commitment to food security and sustainable nutrition. Renowned guest chef, Chef Marky, also graced the event. Honorable Elizabeth Matugas, Municipal Mayor of Dapa and other local government officials. Mayor Matugas expressed her full support for the program and its goal of promoting accessible and nutritious meals.
More than a year since the Walang Gutom Program (WGP) started, its primary mission remains: to reduce and ultimately eliminate hunger among Filipino households. However, as emphasized during the event, the program also champions two key components—Social Behavioral Change through Nutrition Education Sessions and Upskilling for Productivity.
During his speech, Secretary Rex Gatchalian highlighted that the Nutrition Education Sessions help beneficiaries make informed food choices, ensuring that the meals they prepare are nutritious, delicious, and budget-friendly.
“Itong araw na ito, itong kompetisyon na ito ginawa nila Undersecretary Punay para mapakita natin na nauunawaan na natin yung halaga o yung ibig sabihin ng iba’t-ibang klaseng mga pagkain, at kung paano natin maihahain ng mura at masarap.”
The Walang Gutom Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge serves as a platform to showcase the knowledge and culinary skills beneficiaries have acquired over the past 1.5 years, proving that nutritious eating is bothaccessibleand achievable.
Beyond food security, DSWD has collaborated with DOLE and TESDA to equip beneficiaries with skills for livelihood opportunities and sustainable employment.
“Kaya natutuwa nga ako na kasama natin ang DOLE at TESDA nagumagawang productivity sessions, na bahagi yanng program—hindi lang pagkain, kundi nagco-conduct din ng trainings para mailagay kayo sa tamang trabaho na angkop para sa kapasidad natin. We invest in human capital.” Sec. Gatchalian added.
Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga echoed the national vision set by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., stating:
“As this is the pilot implementation of the WGP Kusinero Cook-Off to address the pressing challenge of hunger, the national government, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has taken proactive measures through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under the initiatives and directives of Secretary Rex Gatchalian. Mao kini ang panan-awon sa atong dungganong President Bongbong Marcos para kita tang mahimong malipayong ug himsog sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
She reaffirmed that this initiative is part of a broader national effort to combat food insecurity and enhance nutritional well-being among low-income Filipino households.
“ The Walang Gutom Program aims to reduce involuntary hunger and enhance the nutritional well-being of low-income Filipino households.”
As the pilot implementation of the WGP Kusinero Cook-Off, this event marks a significant milestone in the fight against hunger, strengthening community-based food security initiatives. Five benficiairs particioaptes in the cook off whose dishes were judged based on the following criteria. Participants’ dishes were judged based on the following criteria: 50% for Innovation and Creativity and other 50% for Adherence to the ‘Masarap, Masustansya, at Murang Pagkain’ advocacy
After an intense cook-off, the Walang Gutom Kusinero Champion, Daisy Lipoe was awarded for her outstanding culinary skills and adherence to the program’s core principles. Her winning dish alongside the Nutrition Education Session will serve as inspirational models for other beneficiaries, proving that nutritious eating is achievable and sustainable.
In her remarks, Honorable Elizabeth T. Matugas expressed her gratitude for the continued support of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, highlighting the positive impact of the Walang Gutom Program since its inception in 2023.
“We’re very grateful to have Secretary Rex Gatchalian here today, bringing us once again a new blessing for the beneficiaries of the Walang Gutom Program.”
As the Walang Gutom Program continues its implementation, DSWD remains steadfast in its mission to combat hunger, improve nutrition, and uplift communities. Events like the Walang Gutom Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge not only celebrate the resilience and resourcefulness of beneficiaries but also reinforce the importance of sustainable food practices in achieving a hunger-free future for all Filipinos.
With the success of this event, the DSWD reaffirms its commitment to building a healthier and more food-secure nation—one meal at a time.
