Gatorade and the Department of Education on Monday, Nov. 17, launched a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen student wellness and expand athletic opportunities in junior high schools. The Fuel Tomorrow Academy focuses on hydration education, daily movement, and long-term access to sports programs. The project spans five regions and aims to build healthier habits among young learners.

The initiative is anchored on three pillars—Fueling the Mind, Fueling the Body, and Fueling the Soul. These components align with PepsiCo Positive and Gatorade’s commitment to supporting youth development through education and community partnerships. The program equips students with tools that promote confidence, discipline, and active living.

Scale phase reinforces hydration and movement

The first phase reaches more than 6,600 schools nationwide. Teachers, coaches, and students receive playbooks and movement routines that encourage consistent physical activity. The Fuel Up Move routine, created with the University of the Philippines College of Human Kinetics, helps schools promote teamwork and daily exercise.

A second phase strengthens grassroots sports by supplying equipment to 500 schools. The additional resources support the formation of school clubs and help reduce barriers that limit student participation in organized play. Gatorade and DepEd designed this stage to build stronger foundations for long-term athletic programs.

Elevate phase delivers on-ground engagement

The final phase brings a national caravan to 91 schools. Students and teachers take part in fitness activities, hydration workshops, and interactive learning sessions that highlight the value of perseverance and discipline. The visits aim to give young athletes a structured environment that nurtures both skill and character.

Gatorade also introduced two complementary components to support the academy’s rollout. The Player of the Year Award will recognize student-athletes who demonstrate excellence and strong values. A new 237ml Gatorade bottle, formulated to meet DepEd’s nutrition standards, will make proper hydration more accessible in school settings.

PepsiCo executive Aditya Sheoran said the partnership reflects Gatorade’s mission to fuel young athletes and help them reach their potential. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara added that the initiative supports the department’s vision for active and well-rounded students. Both leaders emphasized the importance of sports in teaching discipline, sportsmanship, and competitiveness.

The launch gathered DepEd officials, Gatorade executives, program partners, and advocates for school sports. The Fuel Tomorrow Academy represents a unified effort to build a stronger and more inclusive sports ecosystem for Filipino learners.