²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ to combat student hunger thru CommunIITy F.E.A.S.T. Food Program
by Office of the Campus Secretary | Dec 16 2025
The Mindanao State University (MSU) Board of Regents has approved a pioneering student food security initiative from ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ (²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ), marking a significant step toward ensuring no student chooses between meals and education.
Approved during the board en banc meeting on December 9, 2025, at MSU-Marawi, the “CommunIITy F.E.A.S.T. Food Program” – standing for Food Empowerment for Academic Success and Transformation – was proposed by ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Services (OVCSS).
Endorsed by Chancellor Prof. Alizedney M. Ditucalan, JD, LLD, the program addresses food insecurity affecting academic performance, mental health, and retention rates among students facing financial hardships.
“This stigma-free initiative aligns with our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” Chancellor Ditucalan said.
“It transforms food security into a foundation for growth, fostering dignity and campus solidarity,” he explained.
The multifaceted program launches with a pilot in the First Semester of AY 2025-2026, scaling to full implementation by AY 2026-2027. Core elements include:
- Free Meal a Day: Targets 50 eligible students daily with P50 nutritious meals at food court outlets, using discreet meal cards for privacy. Monitored by OVCSS, it features misuse safeguards and an appeals process. Participating outlets receive rental incentives; initial semesterly budget is P250,000.
- Low-Cost Drinking Water: Supplements existing free water with P5/100ml vending machines in high-traffic areas, managed by approved concessionaires.
- Painit Community Breakfast: Monthly events at the Student Hub offering free meals like arroz caldo or binignit, organized by student groups with OVCSS funding from donations.
- Free Coffee During Exams: Unlimited coffee at libraries during major exams, coordinated with KASAMA and student organizations.
- Referral Services: Links students to financial counseling and emergency aid via the Guidance Office.
Sustainability draws from university budgets, alumni networks, NGOs, and CSR partnerships, with volunteers ensuring communal oversight.
Vice Chancellor for Student Services Prof. Rohane Derogongan explained that the program will track success through key performance indicators (KPIs) such as meal redemption rates, food security surveys, and academic performance data. Semesterly reports will enable ongoing refinements.
“Strict confidentiality, anonymous grievances, and anti-fraud measures will protect the program’s integrity,” Prof. Derogongan added.
She anticipates boosted student retention, improved well-being, and a stronger community, positioning ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ as a model for Philippine universities.
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