The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is extending support to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers by offering free meals through its Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK) amid the surging fuel prices driven by the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.

“Alam namin ang bigat ng epekto ng patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis sa ating mga PUV drivers. Sa pamamagitan ng Walang Gutom Kitchen, nais naming matiyak na may sapat at masustansyang pagkain silang makakain araw-araw (We recognize the adverse effects of the surging oil prices to our PUV drivers. Through the WGK, we would like to ensure that they have enough nutritious food to eat everyday),” DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in a statement on Friday.

PUV drivers may avail of free breakfast at 6 a.m. and lunch at 11 a.m. from Monday to Sunday.

A variety of nutritious meals are served daily, including fried rice, dried fish and scrambled egg with potato for breakfast; and rice, fried chicken and vegetables for lunch.

While the kitchen is intended for individuals experiencing hunger, especially those in street situations, Dumlao said PUV drivers are also being welcomed to avail of free meals amid the ongoing oil price hike.

She said this is part of the whole-of-government approach of extending assistance to affected sectors in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Dumlao emphasized that the WGK remains open to all who are in need of immediate food support.

The WGK is one of the innovations of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian that address involuntary hunger as well as the reduction in food wastage by turning donated surplus food from hotels, restaurants, and organizations into hot meals for individuals experiencing hunger.

Located at the Nasdake Building in Pasay City, the WGK continues to operate through donations from both public and private sector partners, as well as the support of volunteers who render services at the facility. (PNA)