The number of Filipinos experiencing hunger increased in the third quarter of 2025, according to a survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS). From 16.1% in June, it rose to 22% based on the survey conducted from September 24 to 30.
According to SWS, what is called involuntary hunger is when you are hungry but have not had anything to eat at least once in the past three months. Hunger is highest in Metro Manila at 25.7%, followed by Luzon at 23.8%, and Mindanao at 19.7%. It decreased in the Visayas from 21.7% to 17.7%.
Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said that government programs such as the Walang Gutom Program and Special Feeding Program have been affected by successive disasters. She added that such surveys are a great help in guiding the government in improving the livelihoods of Filipinos.
In addition, the Department of Agriculture is studying the implementation of a price freeze on selected agricultural products in Metro Manila and the Visayas following the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino. According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., they are still looking into which crops will be in short supply before releasing the official list.
Under existing law, a price freeze is automatically implemented in areas declared to be in a state of calamity. This aims to prevent excessive increases in the prices of basic commodities.
