The Senate Spouses Foundation Inc. (SSFI), in coordination with the Office of the Senate Secretary and the Legislative Department, distributed two truckloads of fresh vegetables to about 400 beneficiaries under its “Ani ng Bayan, Alay sa Mamamayan” initiative on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
The produce, sourced from Benguet, was distributed to Senate personnel, security forces, and public assistance beneficiaries.
Acting SSFI President Ciara Sotto said the initiative highlights the importance of mutual support, especially during challenging times.
“We should not forget our family within. In these difficult times, we must continue helping one another,” she said.
Senate Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza said the program serves a dual purpose—supporting farmers by ensuring their produce reaches buyers, while helping beneficiaries reduce household expenses.
“As we help, it benefits both our farmers and the recipients by easing their daily costs,” Mendoza said.
Deputy Secretary for Legislation Mavic Laurel-Garcia said the initiative was launched after farmers reported difficulty selling their harvest, leading to surplus produce going to waste.
“There were no buyers for some of the vegetables, so this program was created to help farmers in Benguet while also extending assistance to beneficiaries,” she said.
A total of 765 bags of vegetables, each weighing about eight kilograms, were distributed to Senate utility and security personnel, K9 units, and personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Philippine National Police, Philippine Marine Corps, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Highway Patrol Group, as well as visitors of the Senate Public Assistance Office.
The initial delivery of one truckload—containing Baguio beans, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, potatoes, and cucumbers—was expanded to two trucks following additional support, allowing for wider distribution.
Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Chief Maj. Gen. Rene Samonte was also present during the distribution.
The “Ani ng Bayan, Alay sa Mamamayan” program aims to connect farmers’ surplus harvests with institutional and community beneficiaries, helping reduce agricultural waste while providing food assistance.