Law Summary

Introduction

Executive Order No. 44, signed on October 12, 2023, establishes the "Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program" as a flagship initiative of the Philippine National Government aimed at combating hunger and ensuring food security for low-income households.

Constitutional and International Framework

• Legal Basis:
  • Article XIII, Section 11 of the Philippine Constitution mandates the State to provide essential goods and services at affordable costs.
  • Article II, Paragraph 2 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights recognizes the right to freedom from hunger and mandates measures to improve food production and distribution.
  • Commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 2 for ending hunger by 2030.

Program Declaration

• Flagship Program:
  • The "Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program" is officially recognized as a flagship program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
  • Lead Agency: The DSWD is designated as the primary agency responsible for the implementation and management of the program.

Implementation Strategy

• Convergence of Efforts:
  • The DSWD shall collaborate with national government agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs) to ensure effective implementation.
  • All relevant NGAs and participating LGUs are required to support and cooperate with the DSWD.

Reporting and Monitoring

• Reports:
  • Regular reporting from NGAs and LGUs to the DSWD is mandated to monitor compliance and progress of the program.

Staffing and Organizational Structure

• Additional Manpower:
  • The DSWD is authorized to determine staffing needs and propose changes to its organizational structure, subject to the Department of Budget and Management's approval.

Regulatory Framework

• Implementing Rules and Regulations:
  • The DSWD must formulate necessary rules and regulations within 30 working days from the effectivity of this Order.

Funding Provisions

• Funding:
  • Initial funding will be sourced from the DSWD’s current appropriations, with future funding to be included in budget proposals for continued support of the program.

Legal Provisions

• Separability Clause:

  • If any provision of this Order is found invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will continue to be in effect.

• Repeal of Inconsistent Issuances:

  • Any prior orders or regulations inconsistent with this Order are repealed or modified.

Effectivity

• Publication Requirement:
  • The Order takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

Key Takeaways

• The "Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program" aims to provide monetary assistance to low-income households to reduce hunger.
• The DSWD is the lead agency responsible for implementing and managing the program, supported by other government agencies.
• Regular reporting and collaboration are required to ensure effective execution of the program.
• The Order includes provisions for staffing, funding, and the development of implementing regulations, with a focus on compliance and accountability.