Food is not a problem in the Philippines. Wherever you go, you’re sure to find a grocery store or restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat if you ever get hungry. The Philippines is widely supplied with food and food products through local production and imports. The point is that not everyone has the money to buy enough food for their needs.

Hunger is a reality in the Philippines. About half of the total population lives below the poverty line, and about 70% of these poor are in the provinces. According to the statistics provided by the Philippine National Statistical Coordinating Board, a Filipino family consisting of five members needs around Php. 8,254 (US$191.95) per month to live with dignity. This is in accordance with prevailing living standards in 2006. Unfortunately, most of these families living below the poverty line are made up of more than five members and earn less than Php. 8,254 monthly. Thus, the power to purchase food that adequately provides members of a family on the poverty line with the nutrition they need is seriously challenged.

Children are the most marginalized by this situation, and it all begins in the womb. A pregnant woman who does not get enough of the nutrients her body needs naturally gives birth to a baby with a weakened body. As the child grows, the lack of nutrition available in her diet further affects the growth and development of her body.

Malnutrition is one of the biggest problems when it comes to children from poor families in the Philippines. It is reported that 4 million preschool children (ages 5 and under) are underweight and stunted. That number represents 32% of the country’s child population. Of the specific challenges to be addressed with regard to malnutrition, protein-energy malnutrition is the largest, closely followed by iron and iodine deficiencies, as well as vitamin A deficiencies. Hunger and malnutrition lead vulnerability to disease, especially in children.

There is enough food in the Philippines. Local production and imports have ensured that the country is amply supplied with food, and it can be easily purchased anywhere in the country. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford the food they need. Hunger is a reality in the Philippines.