National and local officials lead the Innovations Caravan at the Grand Pavilion, Ozamiz City, Feb. 19, featuring the “Walang Gutom” Cook-Off Challenge.

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) strengthened its anti-hunger and social protection initiatives in Misamis Occidental through the Innovations Caravan, which aimed to accelerate the delivery of services to vulnerable sectors.

National and local leaders convened at the Grand Pavilion in Ozamiz City on February 19 to advance programs addressing hunger, poverty, and literacy, and to introduce new approaches designed to make social services more accessible and responsive at the grassroots level.

Leading the activity were DSWD Assistant Secretary Baldr Bringas and Undersecretary for Innovations Eduardo Punay, joined by Vice Governor Rowena L. Gutierrez, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, municipal mayors, and other local government officials.

The caravan showcased initiatives focused on family welfare, support for individuals experiencing homelessness, and community-based literacy programs. These form part of the department’s broader strategy to strengthen social protection systems and ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.

As a core part of the campaign, the Walang Gutom Program Challenge was also conducted, highlighting the national government’s commitment to eliminating involuntary hunger among Filipino families.

Contingents from various municipalities in Misamis Occidental showcase affordable and nutritious recipes during the DSWD “Walang Gutom” Cook-Off Challenge in Ozamiz City, as part of the Innovations Caravan aimed at strengthening social protection and food security through sustainable, community-driven solutions.

Vice Governor Gutierrez emphasized that innovation in governance must translate into concrete and immediate action for marginalized communities. “The word innovation sounds like it belongs in a laboratory or a tech company, but today DSWD is showing us that innovation belongs to our communities,” she expressed.

Vice Governor Gutierrez also reiterated Governor Henry Oaminal’s vision of proactive leadership, stressing that social services should move faster than the problems confronting communities.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Punay recognized the province’s continued support in advancing the department’s flagship programs and in bringing services closer to the grassroots. Punay said DSWD is more than just ayudas but is taking steps towards long-term projects that will benefit communities all over the country.

The Innovations Caravan highlights the strengthened partnership between national agencies and local government units in ensuring that anti-hunger and social welfare programs create a sustainable and lasting impact for communities in Misamis Occidental./PGMO