The “Walang Gutom” (Zero Hunger) Food Voucher Program is the latest initiative by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure no Filipino family goes hungry in 2025.
Launched in response to rising food prices and persistent hunger indicators, the program offers ₱1,500 worth of vouchers per month, distributed over four installments, to eligible low-income households across the country.
What Is the Walang Gutom Food Voucher Program?
The Walang Gutom initiative provides digital and physical food vouchers worth ₱1,500 per household each month, aiming to improve household food security, support nutrition, and boost local food markets.
Instituted under the 2025 national budget, it’s administered through DSWD’s e-FSTS platform and local government units (LGUs).
Who Qualifies for the Vouchers?
To receive vouchers, families must meet specific eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Household Income | ≤ ₱15,000/month for entire household |
| Family Size | At least 3 members |
| Location | Includes both urban and rural communities |
| 4Ps Beneficiaries | Automatically eligible |
| AICS & Other Social Relief | Considered with income verification |
Certified through the National Household Targeting System (NHTS-PR). Non-subsidized families can apply via their barangay or DSWD office.
Voucher Value and Distribution Schedule
Each eligible household receives a total of ₱6,000 annually, given in four quarterly tranches:
| Quarterly Payout | Voucher Amount | Distribution Month |
|---|---|---|
| First Tranche | ₱1,500 | February 2025 |
| Second Tranche | ₱1,500 | May 2025 |
| Third Tranche | ₱1,500 | August 2025 |
| Fourth Tranche | ₱1,500 | November 2025 |
Vouchers sent via SMS/eFSTS or handed out as physical cards by barangays.
Where Can You Use the Vouchers?
Eligible families can redeem vouchers for NUTRITIOUS food items from authorized outlets:
- Rice, protein-rich items (meat, egg, fish), fruits, vegetables
- Participating outlets include SM Hypermarkets, Puregold, Savemore, and municipal markets accredited by DSWD.
Physical vouchers include QR barcodes tied to your Household Identification Number (HIN), preventing abuse.
How to Claim the Voucher
For 4Ps households: no additional steps. Vouchers are automatically processed.
For other low-income families: apply via barangay or DSWD:
- Verify household income (barangay certification or income documents)
- Complete DSWD voucher application
- Receive voucher via SMS or barangay pick-up
- Use at approved food retailers and present the voucher code
The voucher operates similarly to an e-wallet. Unused funds during the month expire and are not rolled over to subsequent tranches.
Why This Matters in 2025
- Counteracts skyrocketing food costs affecting low-income and rural households
- Helps close the nutrition gap and prevents child hunger and malnutrition
- Provided ₱2.4 billion in 2025 to benefit approximately 400,000 households, as approved in the national budget
The program bridges gaps in other social protection schemes and complements initiatives like the Rice Resiliency Program, DSWD’s AICS, and 4Ps.
Tips to Maximize Benefits
- Keep income records updated at your barangay for continued eligibility
- Check eFSTS SMS notifications at the start of the month
- Redeem vouchers early—expired vouchers cannot be extended
- Visit DSWD’s website or barangay for a list of participating stores
The Walang Gutom Food Voucher Program provides vital ₱1,500 monthly food aid, reaching 400,000 vulnerable households in 2025. To benefit, confirm your eligibility, apply through barangay or DSWD, and redeem the vouchers early in their designated month.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use the vouchers for non-food items?
No. Vouchers are strictly for nutritious food items only, as per program guidelines.
Q2: What if I don’t get an SMS voucher?
Visit your barangay office to report and request a physical voucher card with your household HIN.
Q3: Do unused vouchers roll over to next month?
No. Any unused voucher value expires at the end of the month and cannot be transferred.