Growing Health: National Launch of Expanded School-Based Feeding Program

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara and Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa visited the Gulayan sa Paaralan of Juan Sumulong Elementary School during the national launch of the Expanded School-Based Feeding Program (ESBFP) on July 21, 2025.

The event highlighted the importance of school gardens in promoting nutrition and food security among learners. Fresh vegetables were harvested on-site, showcasing the success of the school’s sustainable gardening efforts.

As part of the celebration, East-West Seed Foundation and Farm-Ready GG Seedling Corporation joined the event, distributing various vegetable seedlings from their booth to encourage continued gardening in schools and communities.

The ESBFP aims to address malnutrition among schoolchildren while fostering healthier eating habits through the integration of fresh produce from school gardens into daily meals.