DepEd asks Congress to prioritize education reforms, especially school feeding program

The Department of Education (DepEd) is urging Congress to prioritize legislative reforms concerning education, especially those related to the school-based feeding program and student assistance.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted that these proposed amendments aim to improve access, equity, and accountability in educational initiatives.

Key proposed bills include amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, the E-GASTPE Act, the Teacher Professionalization Act, and the Local Government Code regarding the Special Education Fund.

DepEd also backs the Classroom Building Acceleration Bill, which aims to expedite the construction of classrooms across the country.

During a Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting, DepEd pushed for fast-tracking amendments to the school feeding program and the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) law.

The proposed amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act include expanding the School-Based Feeding Program to 160 feeding days, universal feeding for Kindergarten to Grade 3, inclusion of marginalized groups, allowance for milk-based substitutes, weekly micronutrient supplementation for female learners, and the establishment of Central Kitchens.

The Secretary stressed that reinforcing these programs is crucial for enhancing learning outcomes and ensuring equitable opportunities for all Filipino students.