The Department of Finance (DOF) has formalized a strategic partnership with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the French development agency, to launch the “Reducing Food Insecurity and Undernutrition with Electronic Vouchers” (REFUEL) Project.
This landmark initiative aims to strengthen food security and improve nutritional outcomes for approximately 750,000 low-income households across the Philippines.
Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go led the ceremonial exchange of the financing agreement, signalling a robust commitment to social welfare and inclusive development. The project is backed by EUR 200 million in financing from the AFD and is further bolstered by co-financing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Empowering Vulnerable Households The REFUEL Project, implemented in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), introduces a digitized approach to social protection. Beneficiary families will receive monthly electronic food vouchers, providing them with the autonomy to purchase nutritious food from a network of accredited local retailers.
“Vulnerable families will have direct, dignified, and timely access to nutritious food,” said Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go. “By digitizing this process, we ensure that assistance is both transparent and highly efficient.”
Holistic Support Beyond Nutrition The initiative goes beyond immediate food assistance. To ensure long-term impact, the program integrates comprehensive support services for participating families, including:
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Education on maternal and child nutrition;
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Guidance on healthy meal planning and proper hygiene; and
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Capacity-building for income-generating and livelihood opportunities.
A Shared Commitment to Resilience The partnership highlights the Philippines’ alignment with international development standards, specifically in integrating social protection with broader sustainability goals.
French Ambassador to the Philippines, Marie Fontanel, lauded the government’s efforts: “Allow me to congratulate the Philippine government for its strong commitment to integrating climate action, ocean preservation, and social protection into its national development agenda. These priorities are not only essential for the future of the Philippines but also for the resilience and sustainability of our shared world.”
AFD Country Director for the Philippines, Benedicte Gazon, echoed this sentiment, stating, “I am equally proud that our cooperation with the Philippines could also address the social dimension through the REFUEL Program, supporting vulnerable communities and contributing to a more inclusive development.”
Secretary Go expressed his deep appreciation to the French government and the AFD for their continued confidence in the Philippines, emphasizing that international cooperation remains a cornerstone in advancing the country’s socio-economic development priorities.
