27 February, Taguig City - The Association of Regional Nutrition Officers of the Philippines, Inc. (ARNOP) elected its set of officers for 2017-2019 during its meeting at the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Board Room.

The newly-elected officers are Nutrition Officers III Emerenciana L. Francia from NNC-National Capital Region as President; Vice-President Nimfa D. Ekong, Region IX; Secretary Lourdes B. Orongan, Region 4-A; Treasurer Gladys Mae Fernandez, Region XII; Auditor Hannah Farinah M. Lidasan, ARMM; Business Manager Marilyn C. Valeza, Region V; and PRO Nińo Archie S. Labordo, Region VIII.

Moreover, the ARNOP elected members of its Board of Directors namely Ma. Gisela M. Lonzaga, former President as ex-officio member; Kendall Pilgrim Gatan, Region I; John Nestor L. Ballad, Region II; Bella M. Basalong, Region CAR; Angelita M. Pasos, Region III; Hannah Christina P. Clemente, Region IV-B; Sheryl C. Sedantes, Region VI; Nasudi G. Soluta, Region VII; Sheila Rose C. Balbanida, Region X; Retsebeth M. Laquihon, Region XI; and Leah Vina P. Vargas, CARAGA Region.

The association envisioned to develop efficient and effective regional nutrition officers through capacity building and enhancement of knowledge and skills in various practices which will boost the nutritional well-being of Filipinos.

It's mission as stipulated in its draft Constitution and By-Laws, includes professional leadership and development, learning, and sharing of good practices among members of the association and linkages and collaboration with members, partners, and stakeholders. The association plans to have its constitution and by-laws reviewed and approved during its planning workshop tentatively scheduled in April 2017.

The Nutrition Officers from the 17 regional offices are also set to participate in the First NNC Management Conference Series 2017, together with their Regional Nutrition Program Coordinators. The 1st ManCon will be held at the NNC Board Room on 28 February to 3 March 2017.