First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos led the distribution of free quality rice to 500 families in Zone 38, District 3, Sta. Cruz, Manila, as part of her “Mula sa Puso Para sa Pamilya” initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable sectors in Metro Manila.
The activity marked the fourth consecutive day of rice distribution under the program, following earlier stops in Barangay Doña Imelda in Quezon City, Barangay 72 in Tondo, and Barangay Bagong Pag-asa in Quezon City.
Speaking before residents at a covered court in Barangay 377, the First Lady said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. asked her to convey his gratitude to communities for their continued support.
She also reiterated the administration’s message on easing the burden of low-income families.
“We cannot eradicate poverty 100 percent, but we can at least do a bit to lessen the burden in the days to come,” FL Araneta-Marcos said.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and Vice Mayor Angela Lei “Chi” Atienza joined the distribution.
The rice assistance was sourced through the City Government of Manila from local farmers under the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), covering 10 barangays in Zone 38 (Barangays 373 to 382).
Moreno thanked the First Lady and the administration for bringing the program to Manila, noting its benefit to senior citizens and vulnerable groups.
Barangay officials and beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the assistance, citing its impact on households, particularly elderly residents and solo parents.