MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to launch its largest-ever School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) for the 2026–2027 school year, backed by a record-breaking allocation of ₱25.6 billion. The program represents a significant shift from short-term nutritional intervention to year-round support for Filipino students.
- Increased Duration: The feeding cycle has been extended from 120 days to 200 days, covering nearly the entire school year.
- Expanded Reach: The program aims to serve 4.63 million learners nationwide, a sharp increase from 3.39 million in 2025 and 1.67 million in 2023.
- Universal Coverage: Starting in SY 2026–2027, the SBFP will move toward universal feeding for Kindergarten and Grade 1 students.
- Targeted Support: The program will continue to prioritize undernourished learners in Grades 2 to 6, as well as pregnant adolescent learners and other vulnerable groups.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Education Secretary Sonny Angara recently led a ceremonial rollout at Jose Zurbito Sr. Elementary School in Masbate City. During the visit, the President observed that the program has already led to improved student attendance and higher classroom engagement.
Secretary Angara emphasized that the massive investment—which is more than double the ₱11.8 billion allocated in 2025—is not just about addressing hunger. “It is about ensuring learning readiness,” Angara stated, noting that consistent nutrition is foundational to academic success.
The feeding program is part of a broader “multi-service school engagement” strategy. In urban centers like Quezon City, the rollout is being paired with other initiatives, including:
- Gulayan sa Paaralan: Promoting school gardens to supplement nutritional needs.
- Serbisyo Fairs: Providing support services for senior high school graduates.
- Energy Conservation Sessions: Educating students on sustainability amid the ongoing national energy emergency.
By positioning school-based nutrition as a permanent component of the basic education system, the government aims to combat stunting and malnutrition while improving the overall quality of education in the Philippines.