EPAHP FO2 Recognizes Outstanding LGU Initiatives in National Walang Gutom Awards
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan - May 30, 2024 - The Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP FO2) reaffirms its commitment to combating hunger and promoting sustainable development as it announces the successful validation and pre-validation of Local Government Unit (LGU) qualifiers for the esteemed National Walang Gutom Awards.
Following a rigorous screening process of 101 nominations, 25 exemplary initiatives emerged as semifinalists, marking a significant milestone in the nationwide fight against hunger and malnutrition. Noteworthy among these are three LGU qualifiers from Region 2, including PLGU Isabela for their innovative Rice Assistance Program and PLGU Quirino for their engaging I Love Quirino Caravan. Additionally, the transformative Gulayan sa Bawat Bakuran initiative of Brgy Naggasican, Santiago City, underwent meticulous validation/pre-validation sessions on April 23-25, 2024, and May 16-17, 2024, solidifying its place among the semifinalists.
Out of the 25 semifinalists nationwide, 17 initiatives, including three from Region 2, have advanced to the finals of the Walang Gutom Awards, showcasing the region's dedication to fostering food security and nutrition governance.
In collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Galing Pook Foundation (GPF) has spearheaded the prestigious Walang Gutom Awards. Inspired by the success of the Galing Pook Awards, these accolades aim to recognize and celebrate LGUs demonstrating excellence in local governance for food security. Aligned with the broader objectives of the Local Government Code of 1991, these initiatives empower LGUs to address food security and nutrition challenges within their communities.
The evaluation criteria for the Walang Gutom Awards encompass a comprehensive set of factors, including impact on food security and nutrition, community engagement, innovation, resilience, sustainability, and service delivery efficiency. To qualify, LGU programs must demonstrate significant results in addressing food security and nutrition, with at least one year of operation. The selection process involves rigorous screening, validation, and panel interviews to identify the most outstanding initiatives. Winning LGUs serve as inspiring models for others to replicate, their stories of success rooted in principles of positive impact, community participation, innovation, resilience, sustainability, and efficiency, will be documented for future LGUs to follow.
As EPAHP FO2 continues to champion initiatives aimed at eradicating hunger and poverty, the recognition of outstanding LGU efforts in the Walang Gutom Awards underscores the collective commitment towards building resilient communities and ensuring a hunger-free future for all.