ADB grants $400M loan for food stamp program

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $400 million loan to the Philippines to support the expansion of the 'Walang Gutom' (Zero Hunger) Food Stamp Program.

The program aims to provide electronic vouchers for food purchases to 750,000 vulnerable households by 2026.

Beneficiaries will also participate in monthly sessions promoting healthier eating habits and addressing knowledge gaps related to malnutrition and poverty.

The ADB noted that the Philippines' high exposure to climate change-induced disasters compounds food insecurity and undernutrition.

Nearly 30 percent of Filipino children under five are stunted, costing the economy an estimated $8.5 billion a year.

The project seeks to enhance the government's implementation capacity and strengthen systems for shock-responsive social protection, ensuring food aid reaches vulnerable households during disasters.