Passengers stranded at major seaports during typhoons and other disasters can soon expect immediate food assistance, thanks to a new agreement between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the initiative aims to position ready-to-eat food packs at over two dozen critical ports across the country, including North Harbor in Manila. These will be distributed to travelers unable to sail due to weather disturbances or other emergencies.
“Ito ay upang matiyak na yung mga kababayan natin na hindi po makapaglayag ay mabibigyan ng immediate relief assistance,” Dumlao emphasized during an interview on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon. “Yung mga pangangailangan sa pagkain ay matutugunan natin kapag may mga bagyo o disasters.”
The decision was driven by last year’s string of typhoons that left thousands of passengers stranded for days. With this proactive approach, the government hopes to prevent hunger and discomfort at seaports during similar crises.
Among the items in the food packs are familiar Filipino comfort meals such as champorado, arroz caldo, tuna paella, chicken pastil, ground chicken, and nutritious snacks like protein-rich biscuits. Special complementary food items are also included for toddlers and breastfeeding mothers.
Dumlao noted that the packs are designed for ease and speed. “Hindi na kinakailangan na ipainit, hindi kinakailangan ng mainit na tubig. Pupunitin mo lang yung packs or i-open mo lang tin cans, you can consume it already,” she said, adding that even utensils are part of the kit.
The meals were formulated in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute to ensure both nutrition and convenience.
The program is expected to benefit passengers in at least 25 key ports across the Philippines, reinforcing the government’s efforts to deliver fast and humane disaster response.
