President Marcos Jr. Engages Indigent Families at Walang Gutom Kitchen, Pledges Expansion of Pag-Abot Program

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. personally engaged with indigent families during a visit to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Walang Gutom Kitchen, demonstrating his commitment as the "Tireless Caregiver of the Marginalized." Guided by the message: "Reliable care. Tireless presence. No Filipino is invisible," the President took part in serving nutritious meals and inspecting facilities under the DSWD's flagship Pag-Abot Program.

The President was hands-on as he served hot meals consisting of rice, grilled fish, boiled vegetables, and a nutritious fruit dessert to over 500 indigent families gathered at the Walang Gutom Kitchen in Metro Manila. The program currently caters to approximately 10,000 beneficiaries in the capital region, providing daily sustenance and care to the homeless and vulnerable.

During the facility inspection, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards to ensure hygienic food preparation and safe, welcoming environments. "Our mission is clear: to address hunger and homelessness through direct service delivery that restores dignity and hope," he stated.

The Pag-Abot Program not only tackles immediate food insecurity but also integrates social reintegration opportunities for beneficiaries, including skills training and access to healthcare services. "We are not just feeding the hungry; we are rebuilding lives," the President added.

Highlighting plans for the program's expansion, President Marcos Jr. announced, "Starting next year, we will extend Pag-Abot beyond Metro Manila to underserved provinces, ensuring no Filipino is left invisible to our government’s care."

DSWD Secretary underscored the program's positive impact saying, "Through President Marcos’s Maasahan at Masipag leadership, Pag-Abot has provided reliable and tireless support to thousands, improving community resilience and social stability."

The President's visit affirms his administration’s prioritization of vulnerable sectors and showcases a hands-on approach that underscores his leadership style—actively present, listen, and serve. The initiative reflects his vision of inclusive development where social programs are accessible, effective, and compassionate.

As President Marcos Jr. concluded the visit, he reminded stakeholders and the public, "This is a government that cares relentlessly—we will continue to be a presence that no marginalized Filipino will ever overlook or forget."