BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s thrust to integrate nutrition in education efforts, the Department of Education (DepEd) has expanded its Gulayan sa Paaralan Program (GPP) to 44,965 schools this school year under the leadership of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, observing a 50.6% increase from 2022–2023.  

The program plays a crucial role in sustaining the Department’s year-long School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) by providing fresh, locally grown produce that nourishes students and strengthens nutrition education, which has resonated deeply with school leaders and communities, particularly in underserved areas.  

“Tuloy-tuloy ang aming pagsisikap para matulungan ang mga batang kulang o sobra sa timbang na maabot ang tamang nutrisyon,” said Naomi Tito, School Head of Culandanum Elementary School in Palawan. She noted that the program has inspired stronger collaboration among teachers, parents, and local partners to build and sustain school gardens. 

With funding support from local school resources and the SBFP, the GPP enables schools to grow fresh, organic vegetables that directly enhance school meals. These gardens double as outdoor classrooms, teaching students about agriculture, environmental responsibility, and self-sufficiency, especially critical in rural and last-mile areas. 

“Kapag natuto ang mga bata kung saan nanggagaling ang pagkain nila at paano ito pinapalaki, mas naeengganyo silang kumain nang masustansya,” Sec. Angara said. “Hindi lang ito tungkol sa gulay. Disiplina, pagtutulungan, at malasakit sa kalikasan at kapwa ang tinuturo natin dito.”

As of 2025, 94% percent of public schools are implementing garden interventions. The GPP budget has doubled from ₱10 million in 2021 to ₱20 million in 2024, with a projected ₱21.8 million for 2025, underscoring DepEd’s commitment to the program’s growth and sustainability. 

Farm Schools 

Complementing the GPP is the expansion of Farm Schools, which was envisioned by former Senator Ed Angara and was realized through Republic Act No. 10618.  

There are currently 152 farm schools across 4 regions under the watch of Sec. Angara. These schools provide agricultural training, technical skills, and entrepreneurship education, particularly in rural areas. 

Angara also reiterated his call for increased investment in farm schools, stressing their vital role in training rural students in agriculture and agribusiness, sectors central to President Marcos Jr. push for food security and sustainable economic development. 

DepEd remains steadfast in its mission to equip every learner not only with knowledge, but with the health and life skills necessary for long-term success. 

*All Photos from DepEd