SENATOR Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. filed a measure that seeks to include an anti-obesity education program and exercise in the pre-school, elementary and high school curricula.

In his Senate Bill 1098 or the proposed Anti-Obesity Education Program Act of 2022, Revilla stressed that health awareness, appreciation and responsibility should start at a young age to build a strong foundation of healthy lifestyle and to encourage prevention of illnesses.

Revilla cited studies stating that the obesity has become more prevalent among the 0-5-year-old, up at an average of 0.17 percent points per year for the past 24 years.

He added that among the school-aged and adolescent groups, overweight prevalence increased at an average of 0.33 percent points and 0.34 percent points per year for the past 10 years.

Revilla’s measure mandates the Department of Education to be the lead agency that will provide rules and regulations in ensuring that the anti-obesity education program will be implemented.