DSWD-7 extends feeding days

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) is ramping up preparations for the implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) for Calendar Year 2026, with feeding days expanded from 120 to 180.

DSWD-7 said the extended feeding period reflects the agency’s strengthened commitment to improving the nutritional status of children in Central Visayas, aiming to provide sustained food support that contributes to better health, improved learning capacity, and overall child development.

The agency noted that preparations for the program began in December 2025 through planning activities and orientations for local government unit (LGU) implementers.

These sessions focused on updated program guidelines, operational procedures, and proper anthropometric measurement techniques to ensure accurate monitoring of beneficiaries.

Capacity-building activities were also conducted to strengthen implementation, including workshops on case management tools held from March 3 to 6 in Cagayan de Oro City, and the enhancement of the program’s Manual of Operations and monitoring systems via online sessions in April 2026.

To ensure food quality and safety, the agency also facilitated bidding processes for alternative meals or ready-to-eat food items and grocery supplies in mid-April 2026.

Feeding for CY 2026 will begin on June 22, marking the start of another cycle of nutrition support for young beneficiaries across the region.

DSWD-7, under Director Shalaine Marie Lucero, said the expanded program underscores its continuing commitment to deliver responsive social protection services and ensure that vulnerable children receive consistent and adequate nutrition support. – MRM (CEBU NEWS)