Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro - Governor Eduardo B. Gadiano commits his support to bolster efforts in improving the nutrition situation of municipalities with high prevalence of malnutrition during the meeting with NNC MIMAROPA represented by Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator (RNPC), Ma. Eileen B. Blanco. The meeting was held last 22 January 2020 at Governor’s Office, Provincial Capitol, Mamburao, Occidental MIndoro.
The meeting was also attended by Provincial Nutrition Action Officer, Dr. Arceli T. Rebong, District Nutrition Program Coordinators, Ms. Teresita P. Bucao and Ms. Glenda P. Cortuna, HRH ND Ms. Armi Cabitac representing Provincial DOH Office, Provincial Administrator Ms. Muriel Reguinding and Provincial Planning and Development Officer Mr. Anthony Dantis. The meeting aims to discuss the nutrition situation of the province, updates on the implementation of Early Childhood Care and Development in the First 1000 Days of Life Program.
Through the meeting, RNPC Blanco apprised the group on the results of the 2019 OPT Plus wherein, the province of Occidental Mindoro ranked second among the 5 provinces in the region and the municipality of Abra de Ilog ranked 1st among the municipalities in the region. In addition, PNAO Rebong reported that most of the affected by malnutrition were Indigenous People (IP) and among the 11 municipalities, Abra de Ilog, Paluan, Rizal, Calintaan were identified as areas with high prevalence of malnutrition.
Governor Gadiano gave his assurance that the provincial government of Occidental Mindoro will prioritize the four (4) problematic areas. Since 47% of the total population of the province are IPs, it was agreed to focus the delivery of health and nutrition services to the IP areas. In hiring health and nutrition personnel/volunteers, priority should be given to IPs, these will facilitate easy communication with IP beneficiaries. Governor Gadiano also instructed PA Reguinding and PPDO Dantis to review their Gender and Development Plan ensuring nutrition programs, projects and activities are included.
Governor also extended his support by personally facilitating the availability of boats of Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) to reach coastal areas like Paluan.
Provincial Nutrition Committee meeting will convene on January 30, 2020 to further discuss and finalize the nutrition programs and activities of the province. (FEPBacena)
