MUNTINLUPA City Rep. Jaime Fresnedi filed a measure that aims to promote and protect the health of school children in public elementary and secondary schools and learning centers.

House Bill 62 or the proposed Healthy Food and Beverage in Public Schools Act aims to reduce the development of lifestyle diseases and instill the importance of healthy eating habits among children.

The measure also seeks to establish the Healthy Food and Beverage Program which shall be implemented in all public elementary and secondary schools and learning institutions in the country.

The bill prohibits the sale, distribution and promotion of junk food and sugary drinks in school premises.

“Government must act now if we are to save our children and ensure the future of our country,” Fresnedi said in his explanatory note.

The measure imposes a fine of not less than P25,000 but not more than P100,000 on the owner or operator of any canteen, eatery, restaurant or store that sells junk foods and sugary drinks inside the premises and within 100 meters from the perimeter of any public or private elementary or high school.