Nutrition Month is an annual event held every July in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 491 known as the Nutrition Act of the Philippines. The National Nutrition Council coordinates the nationwide celebration.

This year’s Nutrition Month celebration aims to encourage all sectors of society to help promote, protect and support correct breastfeeding practices. The theme, “Isulong ang BREASTFEEDING – Tama, Sapat, at EKsklusibo”, focuses on key messages to ensure successful breastfeeding practices. TSEK or Tama, Sapat at EKsklusibo means: “Tama” by immediate skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby after birth, and initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of life; “Sapat” by encouraging and assuring mothers that little breastmilk is enough for the first week and that frequent breastfeeding ensures continuous breastmilk supply to respond to the increasing needs of the baby; and “EKsklusibo” by giving only breastmilk and no other liquid to the baby for the first six months. Breastmilk has all the water and nutrients that the baby needs for the first six months after which the baby should be given appropriate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding.

The National Nutrition Council at the National Capital Region (NNC-NCR) in partnership with the City Government of Marikina jumpstarted the nutrition month celebration in Metro Manila through a special event held on July 1, 2011 at the Marikina Sports Park Building in Marikina City. A short program was led by Honorable Vice-Mayor of Marikina City Fabian Cadiz, NNC-NCR Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Milagros Elisa V. Federizo, NAOPA President Mrs. Carmelita “Menchie” A. Abalos, National IYCF Coordinator Ms. Vicenta “Bessie” E. Borja and Marikina City Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Alberto P. Herrera.

The regional launch featured video showing and lecture on breastfeeding and to add twist to the event, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers were given freebies and treated to free body massage, haircut, manicure and pedicure.