The Department of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UN-FAO) convened to celebrate the 2023 World Food Day (WFD) on 16 October 2023 at the Liwasang Aurora stage, Quezon City Memorial Circle, Diliman, Quezon City.

Themed "Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind," the 2023 WFD emphasized the critical role that water plays in ensuring food production, distribution, and accessibility for everyone. As such, UN-FAO officials emphasized during the program the indispensable role of water in achieving food security, particularly in light of the challenges posed by climate change and pollution in countries such as the Philippines, which rely heavily on water-intensive crops like rice.

In a recorded video message, President and DA Secretary Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the government's initiatives and the importance of this celebration in realizing the vision of "Masaganang Agrikultura, Maunlad na Ekonomiya".

On behalf of DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research director Junel B. Soriano, Knowledge Management and Information Systems Division Chief Salvacion M. Ritual attended the formal opening ceremony of the 2023 WFD held earlier that day. 

DA and UN-FAO officials and staff signified their commitment to protecting and conserving the world's water resources through ceremonial candle lighting and the declaration of the 2023 World Food Day pledge.

Marking its 43rd year, WFD stands as a testament to the organization's global commitment to raise global awareness and take action against world hunger and malnutrition. (### Alexis B. del Mar)