Feeding Minds and Filling Stomachs: How PBBM-Backed Nutrition Efforts Fueled a Summer of Literacy Gains

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Pasig City, 2 July 2025 — In classrooms warmed by the Philippine sun and brimming with the laughter of young learners, a quiet revolution unfolded this summer—one not just of words read or problems solved, but of bellies filled and futures nourished.

Thanks to a powerful convergence of educational innovation and compassionate governance, the Department of Education (DepEd) reported that its summer learning programs saw a remarkable boost in reading proficiency—thanks, in large part, to an unexpected hero: food.

Supported by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s unwavering commitment to learning recovery and child nutrition, DepEd’s 2025 summer initiatives—particularly the Bawat Bata Makababasa Program (BBMP) and the National Learning Camp (NLC)—became models of holistic development. And at the center of their success? A simple, universal truth: a nourished child learns better.

“Ang pagkain ay hindi lang insentibo, ito ay pundasyon ng pagkatuto,” declared Education Secretary Sonny Angara, underscoring how vital nutrition is to cognitive engagement and retention. “Kapag may lakas ang katawan, mas handa ang bata sa pagbabasa, pakikinig, at pag-unawa.”

Reading Gains Fueled by Nutrition

The BBMP, which targeted early-grade readers, delivered astounding results: a 32.85% increase in Grade 3 learners reading at grade level in Filipino, and a 26.04% increase in English. Attendance averaged 80.83% among more than 70,000 learners over five weeks—an impressive figure in a traditionally low-attendance season.

What made the difference? Strategic feeding programs.

Schools that implemented snack incentives and rewards observed fewer absences, improved learner engagement, and a noticeable shift in classroom energy. “Nakikita naming mas aktibo at mas masigla ang mga bata kapag may simpleng meryenda,” shared a teacher from Region IV-A. “Hindi lang sila basta dumadalo—mas bukas sila sa pagkatuto.”

The number of learners classified as “Low Emerging” in reading dramatically dropped as well, reinforcing the idea that educational success begins long before the first page is turned—it begins with care.

Hot Meals, Big Impact: The National Learning Camp

Meanwhile, the National Learning Camp—DepEd’s flagship remedial and enrichment program in Reading and Mathematics—reached over 1.13 million learners in 157 school divisions nationwide. With a focus on foundational skills delivered over 15 days, the camp provided hot meals and nutritious food daily to every student.

The results were not only academic. Field reports showed that students, many from marginalized communities, arrived at school consistently and ready to participate—buoyed by the knowledge that they would be cared for, mind and body.

In many areas, local government units (LGUs) stepped in to enhance logistical delivery, while school administrators thoughtfully integrated feeding time into instructional schedules—proving that a system designed with empathy can foster real results.

A Collaborative Movement: Public, Private, and Civic Unity

Education’s revival this summer was not the work of government alone. The DepEd lauded the surge of support from the private sector, foundations, and civic organizations, which donated snacks, hygiene kits, and reading materials. These partnerships were instrumental in reaching remote schools and ensuring equitable access to incentives and resources.

Through coordinated efforts with DepEd field offices, these organizations extended the reach of government support—sending a clear message: no child should be left behind due to hunger or circumstance.

Nutrition and Literacy: A Vision Made Real

The correlation is clear: when children are fed, their minds flourish. President Marcos Jr.’s vision for strengthening basic education through nutrition-integrated learning has taken root, with this summer’s programs offering both data-driven validation and heartfelt human proof.

“Sa bawat batang natutong bumasa dahil busog ang tiyan at buo ang suporta, doon natin tunay na makikita ang saysay ng edukasyon—may malasakit at may pagkalinga,” Secretary Angara reflected.

As the country prepares for the upcoming academic year, these summer programs serve as a compelling reminder: the road to a brighter future begins with compassionate policy, nourishing meals, and a belief that every Filipino child deserves a full mind—and a full stomach.

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