THE DEPARTMENT of Education has expanded its nutrition education efforts through the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program, now being implemented in 44,965 schools this school year.

The program supports DepEd’s year-long School-Based Feeding Program by providing fresh, locally grown produce that helps nourish students and reinforce nutrition education. The initiative has gained strong support from school leaders and communities, especially in underserved areas.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the program encourages students to eat more nutritious food.

“Kapag natuto ang mga bata kung saan nanggagaling ang pagkain nila at paano ito pinapalaki, mas naeengganyo silang kumain nang masustansya,” Angara said.

“Hindi lang ito tungkol sa gulay. Disiplina, pagtutulungan, at malasakit sa kalikasan at kapwa ang tinuturo natin dito.”

Naomi Tito, School Head of Culandanum Elementary School in Palawan, said they will continue their efforts to help students achieve proper nutrition.

“Tuloy-tuloy ang aming pagsisikap para matulungan ang mga batang kulang o sobra sa timbang na maabot ang tamang nutrisyon,” she said.

She also noted that the program has inspired stronger collaboration among teachers, parents, and local partners in building and sustaining school gardens.