First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Friday (July 25) lead the awarding ceremony for the winners of the first-ever Walang Gutom National Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge, a nationwide competition showcasing the culinary talents and nutrition knowledge of Walang Gutom Program (WGP) beneficiaries.

Ten finalists from across the country, who won their respective provincial and regional competitions, prepared healthy, affordable, and delicious meals based on the Pinggang Pinoy food guide.

Two kusineras from Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) emerged as national champion, followed by Region 5 (Bicol) in second place, and Region 6 (Western Visayas) in third.

In a surprise gesture, each of the 10 finalists also received Php100,000 from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in recognition of their contribution to promoting food and nutrition security in their communities.

Also present during the activity held at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) were DSWD Undersecretary Edu Punay of the Innovations and Program Development Group (IPDG); IPDG Assistant Secretary Baldr Bringas; and Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG).

The cook-off challenge is part of the DSWD’s WGP, which addresses involuntary hunger by providing monthly food credits, with conditions to attend nutrition education sessions, job fairs, and training sessions. # (YADP)