Quezon City Urban Food Policy

The Quezon City Urban Food Policy aims to strengthen the city`s local food systems by improving access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food for all residents, especially vulnerable groups. The policy promotes urban agriculture, supports local food enterprises, and improves food distribution networks through community markets, food hubs, and partnerships with local producers. It also integrates food systems planning into the city's development agenda, aligning with sustainability, climate, resilience, and public health goals. The approach involves cross-sector collaboration among government departments, private sector actors, and civil society organisations.

The policy was developed in response to growing concerns about food insecurity, urban poverty, and disruptions to the food supply chain, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Quezon City, as a highly urbanised area, recognised the need for a structured food system approach to ensure sustainable access to food and reduce dependence on external supply chains. The city government collaborated with international organisations such as the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact, UN-Habitat, and the World Food Programme, as well as local civil society groups, to design and implement the policy. This collaboration helped establish the Quezon City Food Security Task Force, which leads initiatives on urban farming, nutrition education, and food waste reduction.

The Quezon City Government, through the Food Security Task Force and the City Planning and Development Department, oversees the monitoring and evaluation of the policy. Progress is tracked through indicators related to food availability, nutrition, waste management, and participation in urban farming programs. The city also reports outcomes to international partners under the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact framework, ensuring accountability and knowledge exchange.

Implementation has involved the establishment of community and vertical gardens, local food hubs, and partnerships with private companies and NGOs for food redistribution programs. Public markets have been improved to ensure better hygiene and food safety standards. The city has also launched campaigns to promote sustainable diets and reduce food waste. Early results show improved food access in low-income areas, increased local food production, and stronger community engagement. Challenges include scaling up programs to reach all districts and securing long-term funding to sustain initiatives.

https://quezoncity.gov.ph/departments/tf-on-food-security/