Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 44)
The primary objective is to establish the "Walang Gutom 2027 : Food Stamp Program" as a flagship program of the National Government aimed at decreasing involuntary hunger among low-income households through monetary-based assistance in the form of Electronic Benefit Transfer cards.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is designated as the lead implementing agency.
Section 11, Article XIII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution mandates the State to make essential goods and other social services available to all people at affordable costs.
The Philippines' commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 2, which seeks to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030.
The assistance is provided in the form of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that beneficiaries can use to purchase select food commodities from eligible partner merchant stores.
LGUs are enjoined to fully support and cooperate with the DSWD and are encouraged to participate in the program's implementation, including submitting regular reports on the program's status.
The DSWD must formulate the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) necessary to implement the Executive Order, in coordination with relevant government agencies.
Initial funding will be charged against the current and available appropriations of the DSWD and its partners, subject to budget laws. Subsequent funding will be included in agency budget proposals.
The invalidity or unconstitutionality of any part will not affect other provisions, which shall remain in full force and effect (separability clause).
All relevant NGAs must provide full support and cooperation to the DSWD and submit regular reports to monitor compliance with the Executive Order.
Executive Order No. 292 or the Administrative Code of 1987 mandates the DSWD to formulate, develop, and implement social welfare programs aimed at providing assistance to vulnerable sectors.
The DSWD may determine appropriate staffing patterns, create additional positions necessary for program administration, and submit proposed changes for review and approval by the Department of Budget and Management.
All orders, rules, and issuances inconsistent with this Executive Order are repealed or modified accordingly.
The Order takes effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.