Expanded feeding programs in public schools and child development centers are set to be implemented this school year as part of government efforts to combat malnutrition among Filipino children.
Under the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP), funding has been increased to P25.7 billion in the 2026 national budget, allowing the program to cover all Kindergarten and Grade 1 learners in public schools.
The initiative will also extend feeding days from 120 to 200, with an estimated 4.6 million learners expected to benefit, including children classified as wasted, severely wasted, stunted, and severely stunted from Grades 2 to 6.
In parallel, the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) has been allocated P9.2 billion, aimed at supporting around 1.8 million children enrolled in Child Development Centers and Supervised Neighborhood Play programs.
The expanded DSWD program will also increase feeding days from 120 to 200, aligning with broader efforts to strengthen early childhood nutrition and development support.
Senate President Pro Tempore Win Gatchalian emphasized that improving access to nutritious meals in schools and child development centers is key to improving learning outcomes and cognitive development among children.
He noted that sustained nutrition support is expected to help learners better engage in education and improve long-term academic performance, particularly in vulnerable communities.