On December 12, 2024, Secretary Larry Gadon and the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation (OPAPA), resumed the Batang Busog Malusog (BBM) Program, an initiative aimed at addressing undernutrition among children.

This feeding program reached over 1,000 beneficiaries at an elementary public school, orphanages, and cancer patients shelters namely—Trinidad Tecson Elementary School, Hospicio de San Jose, Bahay Aruga, Child Haus, and the Association de Damas de Filipinas in Manila. Under the holiday theme “Batang Busog Malusog: Pamaskong Handog,” Secretary Gadon visited children, shared holiday greetings and made calls for community support.

The BBM Program distributed food packs designed to support children's nutritional needs. Each pack included Nutribun, oatmeal, powdered milk, and 10,000 educational booklets from McDonald’s, intended to promote better nutrition and learning.



Secretary Gadon emphasizes the connection between nutrition and education, stating that well-nourished children are better equipped to succeed in school and develop into healthy adults. He notes that addressing hunger is essential for ensuring children can thrive and build a better future, highlighting that education is a significant factor in alleviating poverty. Done in partnership with the SM Foundation and McDonald’s, the Batang Busog Malusog Program does not rely on government sources. Secretary Gadon expressed hope that more businesses and individuals will join this initiative, contributing to a healthier future for children across the Philippines.