2 days ago
DepEd expands school garden, farm school programs to support nutrition, agri-education
The Department of Education (DepEd) has expanded its Gulayan sa Paaralan Program (GPP) to cover 44,965 schools nationwide this school year — a 50.6% increase from 2022–2023.
The GPP plays a pivotal role in supporting DepEd's year-round School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) by supplying nutritious, locally grown produce while enriching nutrition education among learners — a model that has gained traction especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Funded through local school resources and the SBFP, the GPP empowers schools to grow fresh, organic vegetables that supplement student meals. These gardens also serve as outdoor classrooms where students learn about agriculture, sustainability, and food security—particularly vital in rural and last-mile communities.
'Kapag natuto ang mga bata kung saan nanggagaling ang pagkain nila at paano ito pinapalaki, mas naeengganyo silang kumain nang masustansya,' said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo 'Sonny' Angara in a statement Thursday.
(When children understand where their food comes from and how it's grown, they are more encouraged to eat healthy.)
'Hindi lang ito tungkol sa gulay. Disiplina, pagtutulungan, at malasakit sa kalikasan at kapwa ang tinuturo natin dito,' he added.
(This isn't just about vegetables. We're teaching discipline, cooperation, and caring for the environment as well as others.)
As of 2025, 94% of public schools are implementing garden-based learning interventions. DepEd has also significantly increased GPP funding, from ?10 million in 2021 to ?20 million in 2024, with a projected ?21.8 million budget for 2025 — reflecting the Department's sustained commitment to nutrition and holistic learning.
Complementing the Gulayan sa Paaralan is DepEd's continued expansion of Farm Schools, an initiative originally championed by the late Senator Edgardo J. Angara and institutionalized through Republic Act No. 10618, or the Rural Farm Schools Act.
There are currently 152 farm schools operating across four regions, providing hands-on training in agriculture, agribusiness, and entrepreneurial skills — particularly for learners in rural areas.
'Kailangan nating palakasin ang suporta sa mga farm school dahil mahalagang bahagi ito ng food security at pag-unlad ng kabuhayan sa kanayunan,' Secretary Angara emphasized.
(We need to strengthen support for farm schools because they are vital to food security and rural economic development.)
Angara reiterated the need for increased investment in farm schools to equip students with practical skills aligned with national goals on agriculture, sustainability, and inclusive growth. —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News
