In the heart of Manila’s poorest communities, a grim reality unfolds every day — families survive by eating Pagpag, a term that literally means “to shake off dust or dirt.” This dish consists of leftover fast food or restaurant scraps salvaged from garbage bins, cleaned, re-seasoned, and recooked before being eaten or sold at a low price.

For thousands of impoverished Filipinos, Pagpag is not a choice but a means to endure hunger. Many scavenge through waste piles outside fast-food chains and markets, collecting meat, rice, and fried food that would otherwise rot. Once gathered, these leftovers are washed, boiled or fried again, and served as a meal — often shared among family members who have nothing else to eat.

Health experts warn that this practice poses serious health risks. Food retrieved from trash bins may already be spoiled or contaminated, and re-cooking cannot always eliminate harmful bacteria. Still, when faced with starvation, many see Pagpag as the only option for survival. In some slum areas, vendors even sell portions of Pagpag for a few pesos, making it a small yet vital part of the informal economy.

The widespread consumption of Pagpag reflects the deep inequality and food insecurity that persist in the Philippines. While tons of edible food are discarded daily by restaurants and consumers, millions continue to struggle for their next meal. Economic hardships, unemployment, and rising food prices have forced many families into these desperate measures.

Government and charity groups have made efforts to reduce hunger through feeding programs and waste reduction campaigns, but the problem remains rooted in systemic poverty. For the poorest, each day becomes a battle to fill their stomachs — even if it means eating what others have thrown away.

Pagpag stands as a painful reminder of both human resilience and global disparity. It challenges us to reflect on the value of every meal and the privilege of never having to wonder where the next one will come from.