Manila: First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Tuesday spearheaded the second day of the 'Mula sa Puso Para sa Pamilya' rice distribution initiative, providing much-needed food assistance to vulnerable families in Tondo, Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, the First Lady personally distributed 5-kg sacks of rice to 500 beneficiaries on Masinop Street, District 1. The recipients included senior citizens, solo parents, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

In her address, Araneta-Marcos highlighted the critical importance of ensuring that Filipino families have access to food. She remarked, 'Bilang isang ina, mahalaga sa atin 'yung may pagkain sa table (As a mother, I know how important it is to have food on the table). Even if we cannot eradicate poverty, at least we hope that this little thing will help you in the days to come.'

The event saw the participation of Manila Mayor Francisco 'Isko' Moreno Domagoso, who joined the First Lady in the distribution activities.

Manila Department of Social Welfare Director Jay Dela Fuente noted that the assistance would aid beneficiaries in managing rising household expenses.

The rice distribution program is set to continue in Barangay Bagong Pag-asa in Quezon City on Wednesday, before returning to Manila on Thursday for another round of distribution in Barangay 377 in Sta. Cruz.

The initiative was officially launched on Monday, benefiting approximately 1,200 families with rice assistance in Barangay Do±a Imelda in Quezon City.