Bauang, La Union—The Regional Nutrition Committee-1 (RNC1) during its first regular meeting held on June 19, 2018 approved and endorsed its first resolution requesting the Regional Development Council-1 (RDC-1) to enjoin the Regional Line Agencies, Local Government Units, State Colleges and Universities, the Academe and all concerned entities to utilize the Pinggang Pinoy as basis in serving meals and snacks during meetings, conferences, trainings and other related activities.

This is among the RNC’s response to the alarming and increasing incidence of overweight and obesity in the region especially among adults with 27.6% in 2015 based on the updating survey on the Nutritional Status of Filipinos conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) of the DOST.

The same survey also triggered the attention of the RNC showing that the consumption of fruits and vegetables both in the Philippines and Ilocos Region is very low which may result to higher risks of having diseases or may result to death.

The Pinggang Pinoy that was developed by the FNRI in partnership with the Department of Health and the World Health Organization is a simple graphical food guide that promotes the proportions of Go, Glow and Grow foods in every meal.

Pinggang Pinoy also promotes the consumption of fruits and vegetables occupying the half of the plate emphasizing the adequate water intake.

The RNC believes that through this policy, it will further promote healthy eating and healthy living specially in workplaces and schools.

The resolution will be presented to the RDC, the highest policy-making body in the region for approval. KPAG