The Department of Finance (DOF) said Tuesday the French development agency, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), will provide a EUR200 million (PHP14 billion) official development assistance (ODA) loan to help the Philippines strengthen food security and improve nutrition among low-income families.

In a statement, the DOF said it partnered with the AFD for a financing facility supporting the Reducing Food Insecurity and Undernutrition with Electronic Vouchers (REFUEL) Project.

Implemented in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the project is expected to benefit around 750,000 low-income households through monthly electronic food vouchers, which can be redeemed at accredited retailers.

“Vulnerable families will have direct, dignified, and timely access to nutritious food. By digitizing this process, we ensure that assistance is both transparent and highly efficient,” Finance Secretary Frederick Go said.

Participating families will also receive nutrition and livelihood support through sessions on maternal and child nutrition, proper hygiene, healthy meal planning, and income-generating opportunities.

The REFUEL Project is co-financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), underscoring the strong partnership between the Philippines and its development partners.

“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,” French Ambassador Marie Fontanel said.

AFD Country Director for the Philippines Benedicte Gazon, meanwhile, said the cooperation with the Philippines could also address the social dimension through the REFUEL Program supporting vulnerable communities and contributing to a more inclusive development. (PNA)