Far from the town center, Kabasacan Elementary School in Sagbayan, Bohol, became a joyful and lively place on July 31, 2025, as the Tzu Chi Foundation–Bohol brought a feeding program for its pupils. This meaningful event supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 3—Zero Hunger and Good Health and Well-Being.
The day began with a fun and colorful parade. A total of 116 people joined, including 1 commissioner, 7 staff, 20 TCY, 5 volunteers, 8 teachers, and 75 pupils. Many wore fruit and vegetable-themed headpieces to show the importance of eating healthy.
Kabasacan Elementary School was chosen as the recipient of this outreach because it is located far from the town center, where access to regular feeding programs and nutrition support is often limited. Recognizing the school’s vulnerability to malnutrition and food insecurity, Tzu Chi extended its care to ensure that no child is left behind, no matter how distant their community may be.
“This activity shows our commitment to fight hunger and promote health,” said TCY Head Mark Anthony Boiser. “By introducing Tzu Chi’s Multi-Grain Instant Mix, we help promote good nutrition in a simple but meaningful way.”
The school grounds came alive with energetic dance performances by each grade level.
The program continued with storytelling sessions and nutrition-themed games that were both entertaining and educational.
One of the highlights was the free tasting of the Multi-Grain Instant Mix, a supplement sent from Tzu Chi Taiwan, enriched with calcium and iron to support healthy heart, nerve, and muscle function. Joyful faces lit up as pupils happily enjoyed the multi-grain mix, with some even coming back for another serving. Their reactions said it all; nourishment had never been this delightful.
“The multi-grain tastes good and is filling,” said Jhoniel Egcalinos, a 10-year-old Grade 3 pupil, as he held his cup with a satisfied smile.
Maria Karlyn Rabaca, 9 years old and in Grade 4, added, “The multi-grain tastes good, it’s good for the body, makes us healthy, and helps us avoid getting sick easily.” Their words reflected not only the delicious flavor of the supplement but also their growing awareness of its health benefits, a testament to how small actions can plant seeds of lifelong wellness.
“Today, I feel very thankful to the Tzu Chi Foundation,” said Principal Apolinario A. Torrefranca. “This kind of program helps our pupils stay healthy. Your presence truly makes a difference.”
Before the program ended, TCY Assistant Head Joshua Barbacina gave a heartfelt message. “Thank you to everyone. Today, we not only shared food, but also encouraged plant-based living to care for our health and the Earth. May this event plant seeds of kindness that grow into bigger acts of care in the future.”
Through the collective efforts of everyone involved, the culmination truly embodied the spirit of Grains of Love. Indeed, the program shared not only nutrition, but also care and hope for a healthier and better future for the children and the community.
