Tacloban: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has welcomed more partner agencies in the implementation of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP).

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD regional office announced that it signed a supplemental memorandum of understanding on August 12, 2025, with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development; the Commission on Higher Education; the Department of Labor and Employment; the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology; and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

In a statement, DSWD Eastern Visayas Regional Director Grace Subong emphasized that the signing signifies the dedication of the partner agencies to achieve the program’s ultimate goal of reducing hunger and poverty. “This marks a significant milestone. Their cooperation is a testament that indeed, we are all one in ensuring that we will be able to achieve our goals. This aligns with our commitment to achieving our Sustainable Development Goals – No Poverty, Zero Hunger, and Partnership,” Subong stated.

The program supports the government’s efforts to reduce hunger and poverty through a whole-of-nation approach, fostering collaboration among various national government agencies, local government units, and community-based organizations. EPAHP aims to create a more effective and sustainable response to hunger and poverty by providing markets to agri-fishery livelihood organizations, as well as offering technical assistance, training, credit assistance, and community development programs to communities.

Last year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. encouraged government agencies to support the program’s implementation to strengthen efforts toward zero hunger, food and nutrition security, and sustainable agriculture.