SENATOR Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has called on the government to prioritize providing healthy meals for underprivileged students, stressing that the country’s future depends on well-nourished youth.

“Dr. Jose Rizal said that the youth are the hope of the nation, so hope must be nourished—healthy in food, knowledge, and in relationships with others. When we stunt and starve our youth, it’s like we’re also stunting and starving our future,” Pangilinan said during a Senate Committee on Basic Education hearing.

The senator cited findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education, which highlighted major gaps in the education sector, including shortages of teachers, classrooms, and textbooks.

Pangilinan said that alongside these issues, government must also confront the problem of student hunger.

He emphasized that investing in student nutrition should go hand in hand with supporting farmers, ensuring they earn sufficient income to sustain their families.

Pangilinan also backed an increase in the Department of Education’s 2026 budget to address these pressing needs in basic education.

“These reforms should not only fill classrooms with students but also ensure that every child has the strength and nourishment to learn and succeed,” he added.