Long before sunrise breaks over the quiet village of Bonifacio in Misamis Occidental, teacher Jeric Maribao is already awake.

In the early dawn, while most of his community sleeps, he is in the kitchen—cooking rice, preparing viands, and readying breakfast for children who would otherwise go to school hungry.

For Maribao, this is more than a routine—it is a mission. “I usually wake up as early as 1:00 a.m. and prepare until 5:00 a.m. just to serve them breakfast,” he said.

What began in 2022 as a modest feeding effort for just 20 learners at Bag-ong Anonang Diut Elementary School has grown into a lifeline.

To date, his program feeds hundreds of pupils from Kindergarten to Grade 6 daily, nourishing not only their bodies but also their hopes.

In the wake of the pandemic, Maribao saw firsthand how hunger had become a silent barrier to education. Children struggled to focus. Some skipped school entirely.

He knew something had to be done.

“I believe that in every feeding, there is learning,” Maribao said. “My feeding program is a form of motivation for them to learn,” he added.

Through sheer determination—and the power of social media—his initiative gained momentum.

Followers, donors, philanthropists, and private partners stepped forward, helping expand the program far beyond daily meals.

Now, his advocacy provides school supplies, uniforms, scholarships, and even livelihood support for families.

The impact has been profound: children who once missed classes now show up eager to learn. Attendance has improved, and academic performance has risen.

“My children are so motivated to go to school,” Maribao said. “Even if they get sick, they still go to school because they know the school has food and medicines to offer,” he added.

He has also introduced creative incentives. High-performing students receive groceries, piglets, and live chickens—resources that help their families build sustainable income.

It is a simple but powerful way to connect education with long-term opportunity.

Maribao’s extraordinary dedication has earned national recognition.

The Department of Education (DepEd), in statement issued February 25, said it recently honored Maribao under its DepEd Heroes Program, which celebrates educators whose service transforms lives.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara praised teachers like Maribao for their commitment.

“Through the DepEd Heroes Program, we aim to formally recognize the courage, dedication, and exemplary service of teachers and education partners,” Angara said.

“Your inspiring stories are amplified, and your achievements are honored and known nationwide,” he added.

Despite the recognition, Maribao remains focused on what matters most: his students.

Every early morning, every meal served, is driven by a single purpose.

“My service to Filipino children will always be the greatest fulfillment of my life,” he said. “I always pray to God for good health and long life because I want to sustain the greatest advocacy of my life, and that is my feeding program,” he added.