DepEd, Nestlé Philippines promote healthy habits through nutrition education

DepEd and Nestlé Philippines Join Forces to Promote Wellness and Expand Investments

The Department of Education (DepEd) and Nestlé Philippines have strengthened their commitment to fostering healthy and active lifestyles among Filipino students through a collaborative initiative. This partnership aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision of promoting physical and mental well-being across the nation. Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared mission to nurture champions in sports, academics, and life.

One of the centerpiece initiatives of this partnership is the Nestlé Wellness Campus Program, which has been making a significant impact since its establishment in 2013. The program is designed to educate children and their families on healthier food choices and lifestyle habits. It offers age-appropriate modules for students from Grades 1 to 10, tackling key topics such as proper nutrition, the importance of physical activity, and the ability to make informed decisions by reading food labels.

Complementing these modules are interactive activities like the Wellness Song and Dance, which aim to make the learning experience enjoyable and engaging for students. These activities also encourage collaboration among students, parents, and teachers, promoting a culture of physical fitness and mutual support within the school community.

Recognizing the critical role of educators and parents, the program extends its reach through Facebook communities that serve as platforms for sharing wellness tips and advice. These communities foster camaraderie and provide support for DepEd educators and parents as they champion wellness in their respective households and schools. Furthermore, inter-school and inter-region competitions are organized to showcase and reward schools and regions that implement impactful wellness activities. These contests not only bring out the competitive spirit but also inspire innovation and best practices in promoting health.

The recent event marking this collaboration was graced by notable figures, including DepEd Assistant Secretary Cilette Liboro Co and Nestlé Philippines Senior Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs, Jose Uy III, alongside other officials. Their presence underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing nationwide health initiatives.

Beyond the educational sphere, Nestlé Philippines has also unveiled a significant economic commitment to the country. The company announced a P6 billion investment aimed at expanding factory capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. This investment forms part of a larger P18.1 billion financial plan allocated for the Philippines during the 2019-2027 period. Such investments signify Nestlé’s dedication not only to promoting health and wellness but also to bolstering the local economy.

Nestlé Philippines’ dual approach—investing in educational programs and local operations—reinforces its commitment to contributing to the nation's development. Through the Nestlé Wellness Campus Program and other initiatives, the company continues to champion the importance of health and wellness, ensuring a brighter future for Filipino families.

As this partnership blossoms, it sets an inspiring example of how public and private sectors can collaborate to address pressing societal challenges. By instilling healthy habits in the next generation and investing in local industries, DepEd and Nestlé Philippines pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous nation.