The Department of Education (DepEd) officially launched the Lakas sa Gatas Milk Campaign as part of its ongoing efforts to address undernutrition and improve the overall well-being of Filipino schoolchildren. This initiative is anchored on Republic Act No. 11037, the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, and is detailed in DepEd Memorandum No. 036, s. 2024.
The Lakas sa Gatas campaign is a crucial component of the DepEd’s School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP), which aims to provide undernourished Kindergarten to Grade 6 learners in public elementary schools with regular meals and now, milk. By providing essential nutrients, the campaign seeks to enhance cognitive development, boost immune systems, and improve overall health among students.
“Malnutrition remains a significant challenge in our country, hindering the potential of our young learners,” said [Education Secretary’s Name]. “Through the Lakas sa Gatas campaign, we are taking a proactive step to address this issue and ensure that our students have the foundation they need to succeed.”
Key features of the Lakas sa Gatas campaign include:
- Year-round Milk Provision: The campaign will provide milk to participating students throughout the school year, ensuring continuous nutritional support.
- Expanded Coverage: The program aims to reach a wider number of undernourished students by increasing the number of participating schools and beneficiaries.
- Local Dairy Support: The DepEd will collaborate with the National Dairy Authority (NDA) and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) to source milk from local dairy producers and cooperatives, supporting the local dairy industry while ensuring the quality and freshness of the milk.
- Nutrition Education: The campaign will incorporate nutrition education into the curriculum to teach students about the importance of milk and other healthy foods in their diet.
- Physical Activity: To complement the nutritional aspect, the campaign will promote physical activity through the Lakas sa Gatas dance, encouraging students to develop healthy habits.
The DepEd has allocated [amount] for the implementation of the Lakas sa Gatas campaign, which will cover the procurement of milk, logistics, and other related expenses. The department is also seeking partnerships with private organizations and individuals to augment its resources and expand the program’s reach.
To ensure the effectiveness of the campaign, the DepEd will conduct regular monitoring and evaluation to assess its impact on the nutritional status of participating students. Adjustments will be made as needed to optimize the program’s outcomes.
The Lakas sa Gatas campaign is a significant step towards building a healthier and more resilient generation of Filipinos. By investing in the nutrition of our children, we are investing in the future of our country.