A measure declaring declaring Oct. 16 of every year as National Food Security Day--in line with the celebration of World Food Day--has been approved on third and final reading in the House of Representatives.

Garnering 248 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and one abstention en route to its final passage during plenary session Tuesday, March 10 was House Bill (HB) No. 8042, also known as the National Food Security Day Act.

“A National Food Security Day is a clear signal that the fight against hunger and high food prices has to stay on the national agenda, with real work behind it, from farm productivity to nutrition and less food waste,” Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos said after the bill's passage.

The presidential son says that having such a day to observe is a timely reminder that food security is a daily test of governance.

Marcos says that the observance is meant to keep both government and the public focused on the practical question that matters to every household; that is, whether or not food remains available, affordable and safe, especially when disruptions in weather, supply chains, or global prices manifest locally.

Under the bill, the declaration is anchored on a policy statement that commits the State to ensure food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and eradicate hunger, consistent with the Constitution and international commitments, while recognizing every individual’s right to adequate, safe and nutritious food and affirming the State’s commitment to eliminate hunger and malnutrition.

The measure designates the Department of Agriculture (DA) as lead agency for the annual observance. It will work in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DOLE), National Nutrition Council, and other relevant agencies so the activities do not stay on one lane but reach schools, local communities, and stakeholders across the food system.

It also directs the DA to design activities, programs and information campaigns that highlight food security and self-sufficiency; promote sustainable agricultural practices, the reduction of food waste, nutrition awareness and the role of farmers, fisherfolk and other food system stakeholders, and place the people who produce and move food at the center of the conversation.

The bill further requires the DA, in coordination with concerned agencies, to issue the implementing rules and regulations within 60 days from effectivity, and ensure that the yearly observance is backed by a clear plan and a working coordination mechanism rather than symbolic messaging alone.

Marcos also credited the House’s steady legislative pace, and said it reflected disciplined work in committees and in plenary under Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III.

“Under Speaker Dy’s leadership, the House has been productive in moving bills that speak to daily life, and we intend to keep delivering measures that strengthen food systems and protect Filipino families,” the Ilocano said.