ASA Philippines reaches over 42,000 undernourished children in Nationwide Feeding Program
TAGUIG CITY, Philippines – ASA Philippines Foundation, a leading microfinance institution dedicated to poverty alleviation, has reached over 42,000 undernourished children through its flagship “Sustansya at Pag-ASA” Child Nutrition Program. Backed by a ₱121.8 million investment, the 120-day community and school-based feeding initiative has been providing daily nutritious meals to undernourished children across 34 provinces and nearly 300 public schools.
The latest feeding cycle that began on June 30, 2025 underscores the success of ASA’s largest feeding program to date and while showcasing the remarkable impact of community-driven interventions in the fight against child malnutrition.
“Breaking the cycle of poverty takes more than access to capital – it
requires a deep commitment to the well-being of the next generation,”
said Rapa Lopa, President and CEO of ASA Philippines Foundation,
during the launch of its nutrition and education programs. “When a child
is nourished, they’re not just healthier – they have a better chance to
learn, become productive citizens, and eventually rise out of poverty.
This program is ASA’s humble investment in the future.”
This milestone reflects a true community effort with parents, teachers, and volunteers playing vital roles in meal preparation, food distribution, and monitoring of the children’s progress. Their daily dedication has been central to the program’s success.
Promoting sustainability has also been at the core of the program’s approach. Fresh produce and supplies are procured weekly from within municipalities, supporting local farmers and vendors while strengthening community food systems. Involving the community not only ensures program versatility but also reinforces positive nutrition practices at home.
Implemented since 2021 in partnership with Hapag-Asa, the initiative contributes to national goals under the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) and global efforts aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
The Child Nutrition Program is one of the cornerstones of a pledge made by ASA’s founder, the late Ambassador Howard Dee, who championed increasing the Foundation’s poverty alleviation annual budget to P1 billion. This fund supports strategic social investments aimed at assisting the country’s most vulnerable through interventions in education, nutrition, health, environment, and livelihood.