Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – As an initiative to strengthen the roles and commitments of the Local Nutrition Committees in combating malnutrition in the Province of Agusan del Sur, the National Nutrition Council Caraga conducted an Orientation on Nutrition Program Management and Advocacy Forum on 18 October 2022 at The Farmer’s Inn Hotel, Prosperidad, this province.

The activity invited the Local Chief Executives (LCEs), Sangguniang Bayan Members and Nutrition Action Officers to enable a more engaged and efficient body towards the best nutrition service delivery for the vulnerable groups of their respective communities.

In her opening remarks, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) Laniebelle T. Angchangco emphasized that malnutrition is a threat multiplier and intergenerational which could affect the overall population and the economy of the community. However, it can be prevented with a help and solid support from the LCEs, local legislators and the Local Nutrition Committee. Having said that, she appreciated the presence of Hon. Myrna Mondejar, the Municipal Mayor of Veruela, SB members and the nutrition implementers of the different Local Government Units (LGUs), who spared their time and presence during the activity.

Among the topics discussed in the orientation are the seven compelling reasons in investing in nutrition, the phases, steps, and activities of the Nutrition Program Management Cycle, and the importance of a functional Local Nutrition Committee in the overall management of nutrition action plan. The forum also shared ongoing and current strategies to reduce malnutrition among children 0-5 years old.

Resource speakers and facilitators of the training are OIC-Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Niño Archie S. Labordo, Development Management Officer II Mariella Rayco and Development Management Officer II Samantha Anne Navarro from National Nutrition Council Caraga together with the Provincial Nutrition Action Officer of the province, Ms. Laniebelle T. Angchangco.

With this, the National Nutrition Council Caraga is hopeful for a more functional and developed local nutrition committees in Agusan del Sur.#MPRayco