Republic of the Philippines

Schools Division Office of Quezon City

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE SBFP

The program generally aims to:

1. Reduce hunger among learners
2. Improve the nutritional status of undernourished children
3. Provide nutritious and safe meals
4. Support children’s growth and development
5. Encourage regular school attendance
6. Improve learners’ readiness to learn
7. Promote healthy eating habits
8. Develop good hygiene and food-safety practices
9. Encourage participation of parents and the community
10. Help create a healthier school environment

Earlier DepEd guidelines specifically identified improved nutritional status, increased attendance, and better health and nutrition-related behavior as important program outcomes.

WHO ARE THE BENEFICIARIES?

The exact beneficiary categories can change according to the current DepEd guidelines and available program resources.

Under previous SBFP implementation, priority was given to undernourished learners, particularly those classified as Wasted (W) and Severely Wasted (SW). DepEd’s program materials have also identified Kindergarten to Grade 6 learners as major beneficiaries.

Common nutritional classifications

Wasted (W)
A child whose weight-for-height/length indicates acute undernutrition.

Severely Wasted (SW)
A child with a more serious degree of acute undernutrition who requires particular nutritional attention.

Stunted
A child whose height-for-age indicates chronic undernutrition.

WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM PROVIDE?

The SBFP may provide nutritious meals or food products appropriate for the learners covered by the program.

The food should be:

• Nutritious
• Balanced
• Appropriate for children’s nutritional needs
• Prepared safely
• Acceptable and appealing to children
• Made from appropriate food ingredients
• Managed with proper food and waste practices

Previous DepEd program materials specified that meals should provide an appropriate portion of children’s recommended energy and nutrient requirements.