The nutrition deficiencies can be addressed immediately by fortifying rice or adding micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to rice, since it is an effective, preventive, and cost-effective alternative strategy. But rice fortification initiatives will be most successful when they are driven by partnerships and trust between public and private-sector actors to balance demand and supply, and high-level political support is essential for national government agencies to create and maintain commitments. As mentioned by NNC Assistant Secretary and Executive Director Azucena M. Dayanghirang, “There is a need to sustain high-level political support and ensure that the responsive actions of national government agencies are translated into results on the ground.”

Asec. Dayanghirang was joined by DED Rita Papey, NPPD OIC Arlene Reario, Nutrition Officers Marivic Samson and Jaira Pedraja.

Author: OED – Pam Pescador