AS THE Philippines continues to address childhood malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies, experts are emphasizing that investing in children’s nutrition is one of the most effective ways to build a healthier, more productive future generation. Through accessible, high-quality dairy products and partnerships that strengthen school nutrition initiatives, ABI Pascual Foods, Inc. is supporting efforts to help close nutrition gaps while contributing to the growth of the country’s local dairy industry.
The need has never been more urgent. According to findings presented by Dr. Liezl M. Atienza, nutritionist-dietitian, professor, and director of the Institute of Human Nutrition and Food at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, around 94% of Filipino children are calcium-deficient.
“Childhood nutrition is not simply about preventing hunger. It is about giving children the opportunity to grow, learn, and reach their full potential,” she emphasized.
The data underscores the importance of sustained nutrition interventions during early childhood and the school-age years, when proper nutrition has the greatest impact on growth, learning, and long-term development.
“Good nutrition is one of the most meaningful investments we can make for the country’s future,” said Michael G. Tan, board member of ABI Pascual Foods, Inc. “When children receive the nutrients they need to grow, learn, and thrive, we create opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom. At ABI Pascual Foods, we are committed to making quality dairy more accessible and to working with partners who share our vision of building a healthier future for Filipino families.”
Investing in nutrition through dairy
Good nutrition does more than support healthier bodies; it helps children learn better and build a stronger foundation for the future.
According to Dr. Atienza, “Parents often think of nutrition in terms of helping children grow taller or stronger. But good nutrition also supports learning, memory, concentration, and overall development. It gives children a better opportunity to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.”
Milk remains one of the most nutrient-rich foods for growing children, providing calcium, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy bones, physical growth, and cognitive development. Studies on the National Dairy Authority’s milk feeding initiatives show that fresh milk contributes approximately 41% of participating children’s daily calcium intake, while also providing meaningful amounts of energy and protein.
These findings reinforce the importance of the government’s School-Based Feeding Program under Republic Act No. 11037, or the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, which includes milk as part of the nutritious meals provided to participating learners. While the program continues to make a positive difference, experts agree that expanding its reach will require stronger collaboration among government agencies, local communities, and private sector partners to address challenges in funding, logistics, and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Atienza supports this platform, saying, “Government nutrition programs have already demonstrated the value of milk feeding in improving children’s nutritional status. Expanding these programs through responsible partnerships with the private sector can help reach more children while making these interventions more sustainable over the long term.”
As one of the country’s leading dairy companies, ABI Pascual Foods continues to support initiatives that improve access to high-quality dairy while strengthening the local dairy value chain.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to reach his or her full potential, and that starts with good nutrition. Supporting milk feeding programs is one way we can help children build brighter futures while creating greater opportunities for local dairy farmers and a more resilient dairy industry,” said Tan.
As the country continues to invest in the health and well-being of its young learners, ensuring access to nutritious dairy remains a simple but meaningful step toward raising a healthier, smarter, and stronger generation. After all, investing in every glass of milk today is an investment in the nation’s future.
