The Importance of a Nutritious Breakfast

Pangilinan stressed that a healthy breakfast can change children’s lives. He suggested meals that include rice, eggs, fruits, and milk or other locally available food. These meals can help improve children’s health, focus, and school performance.

“Walang batang dapat mag-aral nang gutom. Sa libreng almusal, binibigyan natin sila ng pagkakataon na magtagumpay,” he said. (No child should study while hungry. With free breakfast, we give them a chance to succeed.)

Studies show that children who eat a healthy breakfast perform better in school. They have better concentration, more energy, and improved memory. Malnourished children, on the other hand, struggle with learning and are more likely to miss school.

Funding the Free Breakfast Program

Pangilinan estimates that the program will cost around ₱13.2 billion per year, covering a 180-day school year. He believes that the government can fund this initiative using existing feeding programs, support from private companies, and help from non-government organizations (NGOs).

He also suggested using funds from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) poverty programs to support the initiative.

Government Support and Legislation

To make this plan a reality, Pangilinan urged the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to set aside funds for the program. He also called on lawmakers to support a bill that would make free breakfast a permanent part of public school education.

“Ang pagtutok sa kalusugan at edukasyon ng ating mga kabataan ay isang epektibong paraan para matiyak ang mas maunlad na kinabukasan ng ating bansa,” he said. (Focusing on children’s health and education is an effective way to ensure a better future for our country.)

Why This Program Matters

Malnutrition is a major problem in the Philippines, especially among poor families. Many children go to school without eating, making it hard for them to focus and learn. If the government provides free, healthy breakfasts in public schools, it can help children grow stronger, study better, and have a brighter future.

This program is not just about feeding kids—it’s about investing in the country’s future. When children are healthy and educated, they have better chances of becoming successful adults who can contribute to the economy.

Pangilinan’s proposal is a step toward solving malnutrition and giving every child a fair chance to succeed in school and life. The challenge now is for the government and private sector to work together to make it happen.

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