In the recent election, many new officials were installed in government offices. Since the Philippines is currently experiencing a triple burden of malnutrition, we need to scale up nutrition interventions that will help improve our nutrition situation. One way to advocate nutrition is by engaging with our Local Chief Executives. NNC9 Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Nimfa D. Ekong made a courtesy visit to the different newly-elected officials (NEO) in Zamboanga Peninsula. The engagement intends to advocate a strengthened nutrition program in the province with the establishment of a separate nutrition office with hired full-time staff. Not just in the Province of Zamboanga del Norte, This visit is also an opportune time for the RNPC to advocate for increased investment in nutrition programs, projects, and activities.

During the Engagement with the Local Chief Executives (LCEs) last August 24, 2022, NEOtrition guides were handed over to Mayors of the Province of Zamboanga del Norte. NEOtrition guide will serve as a quick guide for newly-elected officials to help them navigate their nutrition programs. This guide is composed of 5 steps to reap the success of improved nutrition. The first step is the Organization/reorganization or reactivation of the Local Nutrition Committee (LNC), nutrition cluster, and establishment of a separate nutrition office: the second step is the designation or appointment of full-time Nutrition Action Officers (NAOs); the third step is the formulation of the 3-year Local Nutrition Action Plan and integration in PDPFP, CDP, LDIP, ELA, and AIP; fourth step is the recruitment, and deployment of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs); and the last one is to Oversee the implementation of LNAP with focus on the First 1000 Days.

Moreover, the NEOtrition guide also encourages all LGUs to invest in priority NEOtrition actions. These include nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions as well as the creation of a separate nutrition office that will focus on nutrition. Together, let us commit to ending all forms of malnutrition. Investing in nutrition is Good Governance!

ZDN DMO II Rowence Zorilla, RND