Bayambang, Pangasinan – In one of the newest nutrition programs of NNC, the National Nutrition Council Regional Office I and municipal government of Bayambang, Pangasinan once again joined forces for the implementation of Early Childhood Care and Development in the First 1000 Days (ECCD F1K) Program. After a series of social preparations, the NNC ROI turned-over the fund for ECCD F1K program activities amounting to Php 5, 422, 118.00 during the special meeting and cheque turnover ceremony held at Ariel and Fe Garden Resort and Restaurant, Tambac, Bayambang, Pangasinan last April 20, 2017.
NPC Ma. Eileen Blanco and PNC Andreissa Fae Ranchez handed the cheque to MNAO Venus Bueno and Municipal Treasurer Luisita Danaw as representative of Mayor Cezar T. Quiambao and witnessed by the members of the municipal nutrition committee (MNC) and financial committee of the local government of Bayambang. This was commemorated after the consultative workshop of the recently joint project on Nutrition Early Warning System for Food and Nutrition Security.
The LGU of Bayambang is one of the four program areas and one of the municipalities with highest prevalence of malnutrition in the region for two consecutive years based on the results of the 2015 and 2016 Operation Timbang Plus. Mayor Cezar T. Quiambao enthusiastically and gratefully accepted the program and entered into a memorandum of agreement last November 25, 2016.
The ECCD F1K program is composed of health and nutrition services, early learning and psychosocial activities. The fund for the program is allotted to projects like nutrition education, home and community food production, advocacy events, technical assistance, monitoring evaluation and administrative matters. During the special meeting, the MNC body shared the vision of Mayor Quiambao on services prioritizing eradication of malnutrition in Bayambang. The objectives of the program were reiterated to the MNC members, wherein the LGU as the implementing sector, must deliver at least 90% coverage on various health and nutrition services for pregnant women, lactating, and children 0-23 months old.
Finally, the work and financial plan was presented and the body agreed on how each activity will be carried out to the barangays. Each service was explained as to which agency will be responsible and what will be their roles in the implementation process. Through the convergence of the member agencies, the MNC pledged their commitment on evidenced-based nutrition program management. (AFSR)
