S. Korea donates 2K MT rice to aid PH disaster, climate, peace efforts

By Marita Moaje

MANILA--Over 2,000 metric tons of rice were turned over by the Republic of Korea to the Philippine government on Wednesday to help boost the country's disaster preparedness, support peace efforts in Mindanao, and contribute to long-term food security amid growing climate challenges.

During the turnover rites at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) National Resources Operations Center in Pasay City, South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa cited the significance of rice in Southeast Asia as a symbol of cultural identity and national pride.

He said that in the Philippine setting, the staple food holds a more profound meaning, as it touches almost every aspect of Filipino life, being deeply connected to identity, survival, and social stability.

Lee said the bags of rice symbolize an act of friendship and solidarity between South Korea and the Philippines, and to the Filipino people, more than a donation.

"We are not just speaking of bags of rice--we are talking about resilience, food security, and esprit de corps at a time when we are all learning to live in a new normal. A time when the world is grappling with how to make our cities and communities more resilient to natural disasters and other climate crises," he said.

Lee noted that the climate crisis has become a global challenge, citing his countrys experience of record-breaking torrential rains not seen in more than 100 years, and noting that the Philippines is no exception.

"I want to take this opportunity to express my solidarity with the Filipino people following the severe damage caused by the recent typhoons and monsoon rains," he added.

Of the total donation, 1,632 metric tons would directly go to the DSWD to reinforce its emergency relief operations ahead of typhoons and other climate-induced disasters.

The remaining 384 metric tons will be delivered to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to aid peace and development initiatives in the region.

Lee commended the DSWD's leadership and outreach, citing flagship programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Walang Gutom program, which he said reflect the Philippines' commitment to protecting its most vulnerable citizens.

South Korea has provided 400 metric tons in 2022, 750 metric tons in 2023, and 4,000 metric tons in 2025 through the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR).

Lee said the recent donation, delivered bilaterally, reflects Seouls growing engagement and direct partnership with Manila.

He added that it also builds on past cooperation with the World Food Programme (WFP), including South Korea's USD500,000 humanitarian aid to the Bicol Region, which was translated into direct cash assistance and food packages for affected communities after Typhoons Kristine and Leon hit the region in 2024.

He said the WFP's continued role in facilitating the logistics of the latest donation ensures that the rice will reach the families and communities who need it most.

"As time-honored friends, our two nations have consistently supported each other, especially in times of hardship. We have demonstrated this in many ways, each gesture a testament to our strong partnership," he said.

Lee assured that the South Korean government will continue to stand with the Philippines and contribute to its efforts in disaster response, climate adaptation, food security, and lasting peace.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian attended the ceremonial turnover, along with Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe, and WFP Country Director Regis Chapman. (PNA)

(2025/08/07-10:48)

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