President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spearheaded the delivery of integrated health and nutrition services during a visit to Sta. Barbara Central School on Thursday.
The presidential visit highlighted the national government’s comprehensive strategy by integrating primary healthcare access, targeted nutrition, and heritage preservation in a single venue.
President Marcos inspected primary healthcare activities under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP). The initiative brings essential medical services directly to public schools, offering PhilHealth registration, record updates, ID issuance, health orientations, and on-site consultations in coordination with accredited facilities.
The event benefited around 200 learners, parents and teachers at Sta. Barbara Central School. As part of the visit, 1,194 school bags donated by the Office of the President were distributed to the learners.
The event benefited around 200 learners, parents and teachers at Sta. Barbara Central School. As part of the visit, 1,194 school bags donated by the Office of the President were distributed to the learners.
President Marcos also inspected the implementation of the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP). For School Year 2026–2027, the program targets 385 beneficiaries at Sta. Barbara Central School, including 183 learners identified as wasted or severely wasted.
Across Pangasinan, the SBFP covers 552 public schools to combat malnutrition and boost learning outcomes.
By combining nutritional support with healthcare integration, the administration aims to improve academic performance and health outcomes across basic education.
The SBFP showcase was conducted inside the school’s historic Gabaldon building. Established under Act No. 1801 or the Gabaldon Act of 1907, these heritage structures feature signature architectural elements, including elevated platforms, large capiz shell window panels, high ceilings, and designs derived from the traditional bahay kubo and bahay na bato to ensure optimal natural ventilation.
Under Republic Act No. 11194, or the Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act, and Department of Education policies, the preservation of Gabaldon school buildings remains a priority to safeguard cultural memory while maintaining safe, modern learning spaces for learners.
