DOH seeks longer PE periods for schoolchildren

Saying many students risk becoming obese due to lack of physical activity, the Department of Health is pushing for longer Physical Education periods for schoolchildren this school year.

DOH assistant secretary Enrique Tayag said many students are immersed in computer games and neglect physical activity, radio dzBB reported Tuesday.

The report said the DOH suggested that P.E. classes be held for 150 minutes per week, instead of the present 40 to 60 minutes a week.

Last March, DOH Metro Manila head Eduardo Janairo called on parents to keep young children physically active, especially those aged five to 10.

Janairo particularly advised parents to supervise how their children spend their time, noting that many children today lead a sedentary lifestyle.

He lamented sedentary children spend time in front of the TV, computer, or playing videogames, and spending less time active.

Worse, he said, busy modern families have less time to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals.

“Let us start our children early to value the importance of physical activity like riding bikes, playing tag, or playing ball. It helps keep the balance the body needs in burning the excess fats stored in the body,” he said.

"The trend today is fast food and electronics,” he lamented.

The DOH noted an overweight childhood and obesity are associated with non-communicable diseases such as "diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, respiratory illnesses and even cancer." — LBG, GMA News