Pasig City, Philippines
Making Progress*
Making Progress means that the city, local government, or public institution has increased vegetarian options or increased the use of organic meat but has yet to implement dedicated, mandatory vegetarian meals at least one meal per week.
Many school districts are struggling with how to make sure kids get healthy food at school. Pasig City in the Philippines has taken a bold approach: it is now illegal to serve or advertise unhealthy food to children on or near a school on a school day. This applies not just to school canteens themselves, but stalls, stores, and fast food outlets within 50 meters of schools.
To replace unhealthy foods like instant noodles and soft drinks, the city and schools are promoting healthier, often plant-based choices like fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
What’s next?
This law is a great step towards healthier school meals. The next step to make Pasig City a real school-food leader is to include two dedicated vegetarian days per week by 2020.