By Kenneth Marcos 
Every meal on the table is a result of countless hours of labor — from farmers in the fields to fishers braving the seas. On October 16, the world comes together to honor that effort and push for a better, more secure future for food.
The Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) joins the global community in celebrating World Food Day 2025, with the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”
This year’s celebration calls on everyone — from governments to grassroots communities — to work together in building a peaceful, sustainable, and food-secure world.
Why it matters now more than ever
Food insecurity continues to affect millions of families globally, and the Philippines is no exception. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, as of early 2025, around 11.8% of Filipino families still experience hunger at least once every three months.
Factors like climate change, conflict, inflation, and unequal access to resources make food production and distribution a growing challenge. World Food Day reminds us that collective action is crucial to overcome these barriers.
A stronger agrifood system is the goal
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations explains that transforming the agrifood system — the journey food takes from production to plate — is the key to ensuring healthy, affordable food for all.
This means improving how we farm, fish, process, and deliver food while taking care of our natural resources like soil, water, and marine life.
In the Philippines, the DA-NFRDI continues to support research in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine biodiversity. Their aim: to help ensure that our seas and rivers can continue to provide food and livelihood for millions of Filipinos now and in the future.
Everyone has a role to play
Whether you are a farmer, fisherfolk, policymaker, consumer, or student, everyone can help build a stronger food system:
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Farmers and fishers can adopt climate-smart techniques.
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Consumers can support local products and reduce food waste.
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Local governments can invest in agricultural education and infrastructure.
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Youth can get involved in agri-innovation and research.
“By working hand in hand, we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s solutions,” the FAO said in a global statement.
Time to act for a food-secure Philippines
As the world marks World Food Day, Filipinos are reminded of the value of every grain of rice, every catch of fish, and every hand that helps put food on the table.
This October 16, may it not only be a day of celebration, but also a call to work together for a future where no Filipino sleeps hungry.
To learn more about global efforts and how you can contribute, visit https://www.fao.org/world-food-day/en.
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