Republic Act No. 11037 – Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act
Philippines Address: Department of Education, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Availability, Convenience, Desirability, Norms and Preferences
National
Citizens/Consumers
Ongoing
The policy seeks to combat child hunger and malnutrition by implementing a nationwide feeding program. It provides fortified meals, milk, and dietary supplements, particularly for undernourished and food-insecure children. The program is administered through inter-agency collaboration and community involvement, with components focusing on agriculture and livelihood to sustain food supply.
Republic Act No. 11037 was enacted in 2018 in response to alarming rates of malnutrition and food insecurity among Filipino children. Developed by lawmakers and the Department of Education in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the policy addresses systemic nutritional deficiencies that impact learning and health outcomes.
The implementation and monitoring are shared responsibilities of the Department of Education, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, and Department of Agriculture. Regular assessments track the nutritional status of beneficiaries, and audits ensure proper fund allocation.
The feeding program is integrated into the daily operations of public schools and daycare centers. Early assessments indicate improvements in the nutritional status of beneficiaries and increased school attendance. Long-term evaluations are ongoing to measure the sustained impact on child development and education outcomes.