The National Nutrition Council in Bicol (NNC-5) urged local chief executives in the region to prioritize health and nutrition programs as they begin their terms in office.

Director Emerenciana Francia, NNC-5 Officer-in-Charge, said local leaders play a vital role in strengthening programs that tackle malnutrition.

“As local chief executives, you will chair our local nutrition committees, whether as governors, mayors, or barangay leaders. A functional committee means having a timely plan that includes both nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programs, as well as enabling programs developed by our local government units,” Francia said during the launch of National Nutrition Month, which has the theme “Food at Nutrition Security, Maging Priority, Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin.”

She stressed the importance of providing sufficient funding to effectively implement plans.

“Once the plan is funded, it must be implemented without realignment of the budget to ensure the nutrition programs are upheld. Proper monitoring is required to ensure government resources are effectively utilized,” she added.

Francia said nutrition-specific programs directly address malnutrition issues, like infant and young child feeding program which supports expectant mothers through iron supplements and weight monitoring.

It promotes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and introduces complementary feeding for children aged 6 to 23 months.

“We have the Philippine Integrated Malnutrition Program, which identifies children suffering from severe acute malnutrition and connects their mothers with appropriate services for treatment,” she said.

Francia said local government units must have micronutrient supplementation programs, which provide vitamin A, iron and other micronutrients for children and expectant mothers, and dietary supplementation program.

“We also address overweight and obesity prevention and management and have measures in place for nutrition in emergencies, ensuring vulnerable groups receive care during disasters,” she added.

As part of the month-long celebration, various activities are planned, including a quiz contest for village nutrition scholars, on-the-spot poster-making contest for schoolchildren, and speech engagement involving various government and non-government agencies. (PNA)