For the first time in Mandaue City’s history, the local government will distribute the “Gugma sa Pasko” package — a Christmas food pack aimed at bringing holiday cheer to Mandauehanon households.
Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano announced the program during a press conference on December 9, describing it as the city’s first initiative of this kind in Cebu.
At least 86,000 households identified through the 2023 Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) will receive the packs from December 14 to 19, 2025.
Residents not included in the 2023 census will undergo a validation process to ensure they also receive the Noche Buena pack.
However, since validation will take time, the city and 27 barangay officials agreed to distribute one pack per household for those not listed in the CBMS, regardless of the number of families living there.
The city has prepared 100,000 food packs for distribution.
Ouano explained that while the Philippine Statistics Authority recorded around 100,000 households in Mandaue, the city’s local census validated only 86,000 households, which will serve as the basis for coupon distribution.
“Naa gyud siguro ni siyay gamay’ng gap kay naa man uban subdivisions nga dili magpasulod sa atoang personnel, so we agreed nalang,” he said, adding that households verified as not having received any pack will still be given one.
The city will first complete distribution to the 86,000 validated households before accommodating those not included in the census.
“Hutdon sa nato’g distribute sa 86,000 households before nato e-accommodate katong wala na-validate. Atoang tumong ana, matagaan tanan households,” Ouano said, assuring that the next batch may still receive their packs before New Year.
He added that since this is the program’s first implementation, adjustments will be made for future rollouts.
Barangays will lead the distribution, and households must present the coupons issued to them. Starting December 14, at least ten barangays, including Paknaan and Labogon, will begin simultaneous distribution.
Each P600 Noche Buena pack contains ten items: Chinese luncheon meat, fruit cocktail, all-purpose cream, spaghetti noodles, spaghetti sauce, carne norte, sausage, beef loaf, pork and beans, and cheese.
Ouano shared that he conceptualized the program based on stories he heard during his time as a provincial board member, when some residents said Christmas felt ordinary because they could not afford a Noche Buena meal.
As mayor, he said he wants every Mandaue family to have something special on their table this Christmas.
He also thanked the City Council, led by Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede, for approving the initiative.
“Og wala sila, wala sad tay pondo nga magamit para mopalit ani nga mga items alang sa atong mga kaigsuonan diri sa Mandaue City,” he said.
Of the 100,000 packs prepared, P60 million from the city’s General Fund was allocated for the project. (VCL)
