A proposed ordinance authored by Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr. seeks to formalize the local government’s partnership with karinderyas by designating them as community kitchens for nutrition programs and disaster relief operations to strengthen food security, speed up emergency response, and provide structured livelihood support to small neighborhood eateries.
The measure seeks to tap local karinderyas as accessible and community-rooted partners capable of delivering culturally appropriate, timely, and nutritious meals, particularly during emergencies or in areas that are difficult to reach.
Under the proposal, the City Health Services Office (CHSO) will lead program implementation in coordination with the Baguio City Nutrition Committee, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Barangay Nutrition Scholars, and other support agencies.
Karinderyas may qualify as Designated Community Kitchens once accredited by the CHSO, Permits and Licensing Division, and barangay councils. Accreditation will require a valid business permit, adequate cooking and food-handling facilities, and completion of CHSO-led training on sanitation, food safety, and nutrition standards.
Once accredited, these community kitchens will help prepare, cook, and distribute meals for dietary supplementation programs targeting children, pregnant and lactating women, nutritionally at-risk groups, and other beneficiaries identified by the city. They will likewise be mobilized during typhoons, fire incidents, or other emergencies requiring mass feeding.
Designated Community Kitchens are expected to maintain strict food safety practices, follow approved menus, and coordinate with barangay officials and disaster response teams for efficient distribution, especially in high-risk or isolated areas. Participating karinderyas must also keep proper records and participate in continuing capacity-building activities provided by the CHSO.
Funding for the initiative may be drawn from the CHSO, the CDRRMO for disaster-related food service, and other national and local sources supporting feeding and nutrition programs.
Incentives including honoraria, food supplies, or access to livelihood or microfinancing assistance may also be provided to participating karinderya owners to strengthen their role as government partners.
Accredited karinderyas found violating sanitary standards or program requirements may face suspension or permanent removal from the list of authorized community kitchens.
The proposed ordinance was approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council on November 17, 2025 and referred to the Committee on Health and Sanitation, Ecology, and Environmental Protection for review. **Jordan G. Habbiling
