Rescuing Surplus Food From Waste
BACOLOD - More than 622 kilos of still-useful food were rescued from being discarded and instead distributed to families in need through the G-Merkado Social Responsibility Program of the Bacolod City Government. From August 8 to 26, the initiative recovered 622.131 kilos of fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and grocery items from vendors at Libertad Public Market. More than 40 families from three barangays benefited from the recovered food, turning potential market waste into meaningful community assistance.
Fruits and Vegetables Make Up Most Donations
Vegetables accounted for 331.451 kilos of the recovered food, while fruits contributed 266.96 kilos. Overall, fruits and vegetables made up around 96 percent of the total recovered items, highlighting how large amounts of fresh produce that might otherwise be discarded can still be redirected to households that need additional food support. The initiative demonstrates how food recovery can help reduce unnecessary waste while providing practical assistance to vulnerable communities.
Turning Food Surplus Into Community Support
The G-Merkado program shows how coordinated food recovery efforts can create benefits beyond waste reduction. By redirecting surplus market products to families, the initiative helps address immediate food needs while encouraging vendors and communities to participate in responsible resource use. The recovery of more than half a ton of food also highlights the potential for similar partnerships to strengthen food security, reduce waste, and support more sustainable communities in Bacolod.
