FORMER Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos emphasized a critical but often overlooked component of education reform: child nutrition and early development.

“If there is one factor that has to be really considered, it’s nutrition, particularly stunting,” Abalos said.

“Studies show that one out of four children are stunted. The first 1,000 days are crucial—once the brain is damaged, it is irreversible,” he explained.

Abalos cited his experience as Mandaluyong’s chief executive, where he led the Millennium Baby Project.

“We took care of every pregnant woman. From birth to breastfeeding and when the child came home, we closely monitored each one,” he said.

“We coupled this with our educational system and our own programs. The results speak for themselves; we are now number one in the National Achievement Test,” he added.

Former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, known for his work in budget oversight, shared his efforts to increase funding for education programs.

“During my time in the Senate, I always pushed for budget amendments to boost funding,” Lacson said.

“The last amendment I remember was a P770 million increase for teacher allowances. I also consistently augmented the school feeding program,” he explained.

He further noted that even without new laws, lawmakers can use the General Appropriations Act to direct more funding toward priority areas.

“We can augment funding where needed—for nutrition, school feeding, or teacher allowances,” he added.