For the promotion of the updated Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF), Tarlac City and its Barangay Nutrition Committees, in collaboration with the National Nutrition Council Region III held a biggest loser dance-exercise contest called “Zumba! Sunog Taba”. The program intended   to reduce the prevalence of obesity and overweight in the city. The month-long activity started on January 5, 2014 where in 100 participants from the 10 barangays of Tarlac City embarked on their journey toward the coveted “Biggest Loser” crown. In her message, National President of the Association of District/City Nutrition Program Coordinator and Tarlac City CNPC Ms. Evelyn A. Gamurot emphasized the importance of proper diet and exercise for the success of the contest. The Zumba session lasted for an hour, 5:30 to 6:30 pm, everyday.
Nutrition Program Coordinator of NNC Region II and concurrent Officer-In-Charge of NNC Region III Ms. Rhodora G. Maestre graced the awarding ceremony on 05 February, 2014. In her message, NPC Maestre stressed the importance of community activities like the Zumba exercise in disseminating information on the updated NGF. This was echoed by City Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Ma. Carmela L. Go, who thanked everyone for their active participation and continued support for the nutrition program in the city.

The biggest loser Ms. Leonor Dule and Ms. Victoria Falgawe of Barangay Suizo received cash prizes together with the second and third placers. Consolation prizes were also given to non-winners who completed the 30 day activity.

Honorable City Councilor on Health Maria Antonette I. Belmonte assured the continuation of the “Zumba! Sunog Taba” program for the promotion of the NGF particularly message number 9: “Attain normal body weight through proper diet and moderate physical activity to maintain good health and help prevent lifestyle-non communicable diseases”. She thanked the City Nutrition Committee and NNC regional office for the successful conduct of this very timely project in the community.