25 March 2022, Cagayan de Oro City – The National Nutrition Council Region X continues to advocate nutrition to Local Government Units (LGU) for prioritization and support to the local nutrition programs. NNC X, represented by Nutrition Officer (NO) III Sheena Marie G. Talle and NO I Vazamija Therese A. Villasi, visited LGU Medina, Misamis Oriental last 23 March 2022.

LGU Medina was represented by Vice Mayor Kim Michael P. Odchigue, Kagawad on Health Melchor Corrales, Lorelie F. Arot of the Department of Education, Jasrinne Monique A. Amatong of LGU Agriculture Office, Bayan M. Aca-an of Rural Health Unit, Glorilie S. Vosotrus of the Municipal Social and Welfare Development Office, Municipal Nutrition Action Officer Venus Grace D. Pamisa, and select Barangay Nutrition Scholars.

NO III Talle presented the background of NNC, Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2017-2022, Operation Timbang (OPT) Plus results of the municipality, roles and functions of Local Nutrition Committee, guide to navigating nutrition programs, including focus on First 1000 Days and enabling policies for nutrition program. Status of LGU Nutrition Action Plan and 2022 budget were also discussed.

The NNC X recommended to MNAO Pamisa and present agency representatives to reorganize the MNC after election period and to conduct quarterly meetings for program planning, coordination and monitoring. MNAO Pamisa was also amenable to the recommendation of submitting a proposal for the hiring of additional staff for the nutrition office.

After which, NNC X proceeded to the Medina Rural Health Unit to reorient the BNSs on the use of OPT Plus measuring tools. The BNSs were made to demonstrate their usual procedure on taking the Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC), weight and height of children. Then, NO III Talle and NO I Villasi demonstrated the step-by-step process on how to correctly use the MUAC Tape, Hanging Type Weighing Scale and aluminum height board to the BNSs. MNAO Pamisa and those BNSs present in the orientation committed to disseminate the proper way of measuring children’s height, weight and how to use MUAC tape to their fellow BNSs.

Further, NNC X assisted MNAO Pamisa and the BNSs on the use of electronic OPT Plus barangay and consolidating tools.

The NNC X continues its commitment of advocating for the nutrition program for improved investments and ultimately, improved nutrition outcomes in the localities and in the entire region. (NO I Vazamija Therese A. Villasi)