Mega Prime, DepEd, DoST partner for schoolchildren nutrition

MEGA Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI), with two Department of Education (DepEd) regional offices and the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DoST-FNRI), launched the fifth edition of its health and nutrition program for Filipino schoolchildren.

The food company behind Mega Sardines also solidified its Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) program with its partnership with Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc. (ROFP), its «long-standing partner responsible for program facilitation,» and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, through the Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

MBS 2023, according to the food company, will address a «critical issue» by enhancing its program to benefit young schoolchildren.

«While our core mission remains unchanged — improving children's health through nutritious meals — we've tailored our approach for students,» MPFI, represented by Chief Development and Growth Officer Marvin Tiu Lim and President and CEO Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, said during the launch on Oct. 18, 2023, at the Prime Hotel in Quezon City.

«We recognize that proper nutrition and education are deeply interconnected. Well-fed children can focus on their studies more effectively, leading to better information absorption and overall academic performance,» the food company added.

«MBS 2023 emphasizes the importance of affordable and accessible nutrition sources. In a time when access to nutritious food is vital, MBS seeks to bridge the gap by promoting options that are within reach for Filipino households,» Lim said.

MBS 2023 will include a school-based feeding initiative that spans 120 days and will reach DepEd elementary schools in Sto. Tomas, Batangas; Quezon (Lucena, Sariaya, Caluag); Tacloban (Tacloban City, Tanauan, Ormoc); and BARMM.

It will cater to children between 6 and 12 years old who will be served Mega Sardines, Mega Tuna and Mega Prime Quality.

DoST-FNRI plays a crucial role in guiding the development of the 120-day, once-a-day meal plan, which incorporates Mega Sardines as the primary protein source for identified beneficiaries.

"[DoST-FNR] assesses