DepEd expands feeding program with P28.66 billion budget for 2026

The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to implement an expanded School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) in 2026 with a significantly increased budget of ₱28.66 billion, more than double the previous year's ₱11.78 billion.

This expanded funding will enable the program to provide meals to 4.49 million learners, extending daily feeding to 200 school days.

The SBFP will also offer a 45-day feeding cycle for 604,134 junior high school and 200,663 senior high school students identified as wasted or severely wasted.

Additionally, 7,276 adolescent pregnant learners will receive nutritional support through a 30-day intervention.

Education Secretary and Senator Sonny Angara highlighted that the increased support demonstrates a growing understanding that student nutrition directly impacts their ability to learn.

Angara cited anecdotal evidence from teachers and students, stating, "Kita namin sa mga bata at sa mga kwento ng ating mga guro na mas gising, mas masigla, mas handang makinig ang mga mag-aaral basta may laman ang kanilang tiyan. Iyan ang pinaka-pruweba na gumagana ang programa."