From Garden to Classroom to Table: How DepEd is Cultivating a Food-Secure Future for Filipino Learners

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a nation where the aroma of adobo wafts through bustling streets and a bowl of lugaw can warm more than just the stomach, food is not just sustenance—it is identity. And in a bold, compassionate move echoing the cultural heartbeat of the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) has ramped up its mission to feed not just minds, but also bellies, aligning itself with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive for food security within the country’s public schools.

At the heart of this movement is a powerful convergence of purpose: feeding the hungry, teaching the young, and preserving the culture.

Nourishment with Nationalism: PBBM’s Vision in Action

During the launch of Filipino Food Month 2025, President Marcos captured the spirit of the Filipino plate and the Filipino soul in one breath. “Sa pamamagitan ng ating pagkain, matutuklasan natin ang ating pagka-Pilipino,” he proclaimed, highlighting the deep ties between cuisine, resilience, creativity, and community compassion.

With this vision, DepEd has renewed its commitment to three cornerstone programs: the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP), Gulayan sa Paaralan, and Farm Schools—a triad aimed at nourishing the body, cultivating the land, and embedding values through food.

The Green Classroom: Ramon Torres Malingin Farm School’s Example

In the rural expanse of Negros Occidental, a beacon of this integrated approach stands proud: Ramon Torres Malingin Farm School (RTMFS). Here, students don’t just learn to plant—they learn to thrive.

Principal Roger Raymundo doesn’t just oversee a school; he shepherds a vision. “Farming can sustain them. Hindi ka magugutom kung marunong kang magtanim,” he asserts. Surrounding the school are bountiful rows of okra, eggplants, and bottle gourds—living lessons rooted in soil and survival.

These crops are more than just teaching tools. They directly nourish students through the school's feeding program, transforming learning into living, and knowledge into nourishment. For many students, it’s not just an education—it’s a lifeline.

Feeding Hope: Sta. Cristina Elementary School’s Triumph

Meanwhile, in the urban heartbeat of Dasmariñas City, Cavite, Sta. Cristina Elementary School (SCES) is proving that effective collaboration can turn policy into progress. With an astounding 93.80% success rate in its SBFP this year, SCES has turned meals into milestones.

Principal Elena Bayan attributes their triumph to community synergy. “Ang success ng aming SBFP ay makikita sa pagtutulungan,” she shares. Their Gulayan sa Paaralan is not just a source of vegetables—it is a symbol of unity, where parents, teachers, and students till the soil of progress together.

Every spoonful of ginisang munggo, every ladle of sopas, and every bowl of lugaw served at SCES carries not just nutrition, but tradition—a daily reinforcement of Filipino identity and shared responsibility.

The Bigger Picture: Food as Education, Culture, and Empowerment

From the provinces to the cities, DepEd is weaving a powerful tapestry that links agricultural literacy with nutritional health. This is no ordinary feeding program. It is a holistic, future-forward framework that sows seeds of sustainability while preserving the rich culinary soul of the nation.

These efforts are grounded in the wisdom of pagkakaisa—unity. They reflect a renewed national will to uplift children not just through textbooks, but through tangible, edible acts of care.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara underscores the ethos of the movement: “Through DepEd’s integrated approach that combines nutrition, agriculture, and values education, the spirit of Filipino hospitality and care is kept alive in every meal served.”

The Path Forward: Feeding with Compassion, Teaching with Purpose

As the country celebrates Filipino Food Month under the theme “Sarap ng Pagkaing Pilipino, Yaman ng Ating Kasaysayan, Kultura, at Pagkatao,” it becomes clear that this isn’t just a commemoration—it’s a commitment.

In every garden plot cultivated, in every Filipino dish served in our public schools, and in every child who learns to plant, cook, and care, DepEd is shaping not only stronger students, but a stronger Philippines.

And in this endeavor, food is not just what we eat—it’s who we are.

MRF-D 25.3 Charges Into Balikatan 25: A Daring Display of Allied Strength and Commitment in Palawan

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The thunderous roar of Ospreys and the synchronized cadence of boots on foreign soil signal more than just movement—they herald the unwavering resolve of allies bound by shared ideals. Following the successful conclusion of Marine Exercise 25 in Mindanao, the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) surged forward to Palawan, setting the stage for one of the most ambitious joint military undertakings in the Indo-Pacific—Exercise Balikatan 25.

This year marks the 40th iteration of Balikatan, the cornerstone of U.S.-Philippine bilateral defense exercises. With a scope broader and bolder than ever, Balikatan 25 aims to sharpen interoperability, bolster regional security, and reflect the growing strength of the U.S.-Philippine-Australia alliance in an increasingly contested maritime domain.

A Force Forward: From Darwin to Palawan

The seamless transition of MRF-D’s Ground Combat Element (GCE) from Mindanao to Palawan wasn’t just a logistical feat—it was a clear signal of resolve. Reinforced by command and logistics elements flown directly from Darwin, Australia, the deployment underscores the MAGTF’s strategic mobility and its readiness to respond at a moment’s notice.

“Our participation in Balikatan alongside our Philippine and Australian counterparts reflects the very essence of why MRF-D exists—to be forward, integrated and ready as a stand-in force,” declared Col. Jason C. Armas, commanding officer of MRF-D 25.3 MAGTF. “Together, we’re sharpening our ability to respond to crises, strengthen regional partnerships and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

A Trilateral Show of Strength

MRF-D is joined by elite forces from the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (5/7 RAR) and the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) of the Philippine Marine Corps. Their mission? To execute complex, high-risk military scenarios that go far beyond drills—these are rehearsals for real-world defense.

The highlight: a counter-landing live-fire exercise in Rizal, Palawan, where U.S., Australian, and Philippine forces will synchronize air and ground-based fires to repel a simulated amphibious invasion.

The operation will showcase:

Javelin anti-tank missiles, machine guns, and crew-served weapons from U.S. forces.

Anti-tank systems from Australia’s 5/7 RAR.

105mm howitzers and fast-attack air support from the Philippine Armed Forces.

And a stunning High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-fire demonstration by the U.S. Army’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, proving the power of joint fires coordination.

“This training strengthens not just our interoperability, but our trust in each other as regional security partners,” affirmed LTCOL Adrian Walker, Commander of the Australian Contingent. “We are learning side-by-side in rugged and diverse environments, preparing us to face real-world challenges with confidence and unity.”

Securing the Archipelago: Maritime Key Terrain Operations

In the rugged expanse of Southern Palawan, a second Combined Joint All Domain Operation will unfold. Trilateral forces—inserted by MRF-D MV-22 Ospreys from VMM-363—will secure strategic coastal terrain. As U.S., Australian, and Philippine troops insert by air, Philippine Marine Battalion Landing Teams will conduct amphibious raids to simulate real-time defense of vital maritime chokepoints.

These high-intensity drills reflect the Philippine Archipelagic Coastal Defense Concept—a doctrine born of necessity in a region riddled with maritime disputes and growing tensions. Together, the allied forces are refining their ability to project force, safeguard sovereignty, and maintain open sea lanes.

The Real Meaning of Balikatan

Translated from Filipino, Balikatan means "shoulder-to-shoulder"—a concept that transcends tactics and technology. It embodies the spirit of unity and mutual defense between allies.

“Balikatan is more than just a military exercise—it is a reaffirmation of our enduring alliance and shared commitment to regional stability,” emphasized Brig. Gen. Antonio Mangoroban, commanding general of the 3MBDE. “Through combined operations and shared learning, we enhance our collective readiness to protect our people, our sovereignty and our region.”

A Message Heard Loud and Clear

In a world where flashpoints can ignite at any moment, Balikatan 25 serves as a powerful reminder: the Indo-Pacific is not without defenders. MRF-D 25.3, shoulder-to-shoulder with Philippine and Australian forces, sends an unmistakable message—the allies stand ready.

This is not just an exercise in warfighting. It is a declaration of peace through strength. A warning to those who might test the will of free nations. And a testament to the enduring power of friendship, forged not just in treaties, but in training, trust, and shared trials on the frontlines of freedom.

Frontliners of Democracy: DepEd’s Bold Commitment to Empower and Protect Teachers in the May 2025 Elections

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As the nation braces for another critical exercise in democracy, the Department of Education (DepEd) rises with unwavering resolve, rallying behind the unsung heroes of the electoral process—our teachers.

In what can only be described as a defining moment of unity, service, and accountability, Education Secretary Sonny Angara declared DepEd's firm commitment to uphold the integrity of the May 2025 National and Local Elections. At the heart of this mission: ensuring that every teacher who steps up to serve the country is trained, protected, and honored.

Guardians of the Vote

“Our teachers are holding up the pillars of democracy. In return, we are making sure their service is met with gratitude, preparation, and protection,” Angara declared during a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing between DepEd, COMELEC, AFP, PNP, and various institutional partners.

This isn’t just about logistics. It’s a promise—a vow to those who often work quietly in classrooms but will soon stand bravely at the forefront of polling precincts across the nation.

Under this MOA, critical measures have been set in motion: legal and medical assistance for all education personnel deputized for election service, a nationwide command structure ready to respond in real-time, and inter-agency coordination at levels never seen before.

Legal Shield and Moral Compass

Recognizing the legal risks that often come with serving in elections, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has stepped up, committing to provide legal aid to teachers who may face complaints while performing their duties. It’s a lifeline in a high-pressure environment where missteps, even unintentional ones, can lead to costly consequences.

DepEd also enlisted Atty. Alberto C. Agra—former Acting Secretary of Justice and Solicitor General—to lead special orientations on election laws. These sessions equip educators not only with legal knowledge but the confidence to uphold the sanctity of their role in the democratic process.

The Command Center: Nerve Hub of the Electoral Frontline

From May 11 to 13, 2025, the DepEd Election Command Center in Makati City will be fully operational—functioning as the central nervous system of the Department’s election efforts. This hub will synchronize operations across Regional and Schools Division Offices, enabling rapid response and clear communication in every corner of the country.

DepEd’s Election Task Force (ETF) will activate across all levels, operating like a well-oiled machine, with each ETF Operations Center working hand in hand with COMELEC, the Public Attorney’s Office, and law enforcement to safeguard the welfare of every teacher on duty.

“This is built like a command center—with clear roles, dedicated personnel, and the authority to act fast when our people need help,” Angara emphasized.

Empowering with Purpose

Beyond safety and support, the Department is also ensuring fair compensation and incentives. ETF members will receive honoraria, overtime pay, or compensatory time off, depending on employment status and existing government rules.

Perhaps more importantly, DepEd is reinforcing its call for political neutrality. The Department has issued strict guidelines to prevent any form of electioneering or partisan activities. This is a clear signal: educators must remain impartial custodians of democracy, and any deviation will not be tolerated.

A Nation’s Trust Rests in Their Hands

As election day nears, the Department is calling on every Filipino to stand beside our teachers—respect them, protect them, and recognize the vital role they play.

“This is more than an election,” Secretary Angara declared. “It is a national act of trust—and our teachers deserve nothing less than our full support.”

In the theater of democracy, where every vote holds power, our teachers are the quiet sentinels ensuring that power is rightfully exercised. As they prepare to serve once again, the nation must rise with them—because defending democracy is not just a duty. It is a shared honor.

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