SENATOR Erwin Tulfo reaffirmed his support for the proposed Expanded National Nutrition Program Act, stressing the need to strengthen government nutrition initiatives to combat child stunting while providing greater support to local farmers and fisherfolk.

During the interpellation of the bill’s sponsor, Senator Bam Aquino, Tulfo said the measure responds to recommendations by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) to improve the country’s nutrition programs and address gaps in the implementation of existing laws.

Aquino said the proposed legislation expands nutrition interventions from pregnancy through elementary school, recognizing that proper nutrition during a child’s earliest years is critical to preventing stunting and malnutrition.

Under the bill, pregnant women would receive nutrition support, followed by interventions for children from birth to age two, toddlers enrolled in Child Development Centers, and universal school-based feeding for Kindergarten to Grade 3 pupils in public schools.

Nutrition assistance would also continue for undernourished and malnourished learners in Grades 4 to 6, ensuring sustained support throughout a child’s formative years.

To implement the expanded coverage, Aquino said funding for the School-Based Feeding Program would need to increase from P25.6 billion under the 2026 General Appropriations Act to around P30 billion to P35 billion. Additional funding would also be required for the Supplementary Feeding Program implemented by local government units.

He said the proposed budget increase reflects the expanded number of beneficiaries and the goal of making school-based feeding universal up to Grade 3.

Tulfo also sought assurances that local government units would effectively carry out their responsibilities under the measure, particularly in implementing parental care initiatives and integrating child health and nutrition into local development plans.

Aquino said the Department of the Interior and Local Government, together with the League of Provinces, League of Cities, League of Municipalities, and other stakeholders, already monitors the establishment of Child Development Centers and the implementation of local nutrition programs.

Tulfo likewise proposed including nutrition program implementation among the criteria for the Seal of Good Local Governance, a recommendation Aquino said could be considered during the amendment period.