Despite the backlash and criticism received during the launch of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso’s feeding initiative, “Yormilk,” the program continues to be part of the city’s broader nutrition and child development efforts aimed at addressing malnutrition among young learners.
During a Sustainability forum, Domagoso addressed two problems at once by providing a solution that supports both nutrition and local production challenges.
“Baka may problema ang mga atabs natin, which turned out to be when I directed MHD, MDSW: ‘Check niyo nga mga mag-aaral ko’,” Isko shared while gathering data on possible solutions to malnutrition among young Manileños.
The program focuses on providing milk to daycare and elementary students as a daily source of essential nutrients.
He added, “Fortunately, I attended a conversation like this through NDA (National Dairy Authority). I found out na marami pa lang gatas ang natatapon sa kalsada, sa farm, kasi walang merkado o demand.”
Through partnerships with local suppliers and cooperatives, it ensures a steady supply of fresh milk distributed to schools and community centers.
By integrating nutrition programs into education and social welfare services, it helps improve student health, attendance, and learning performance.
“May problema ako, may pera ako. Wala kang merkado, wala kang produkto,” he said. “I was in a forum like this, then it turned out to be, boom, panis—gatas sa farm.”
He added, “For the first time, a local government unit acquired directly from a cooperative and brought it to Manila three times a week.”
The “Yormilk” initiative reflects a sustainability approach that links child welfare, education, and local economic support.
The initiative “Yormilk: Kaagapay ng Batang Maynila sa Paglaki” program officially rolled out on Monday, January 12, in Barangay 137, Balut, Tondo.
Under Yormilk, a total of 21,651 preschoolers received milk three times a week for 90 days.
Despite early criticism, it highlights how feeding programs can contribute to long-term development goals while addressing immediate public health needs.
