Participants from the Province of Romblon completed the 3-day Online Annual Investment Program (AIP) Online Workshop held on 17, 18 and 20 August 2021, making them the second province to complete the workshop this year. The workshop was attended by 58 participants composed of Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs), Municipal Health Officers (MHOs), Municipal Planning and Development Officers (MPDOs), Municipal Budget Officers (MBOs), and SB Committee on Health Chair in 17 municipalities. The Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) and District Nutrition Program Coordinators (DNPCs) attended as well. The workshop was conducted through Zoom Application platform.
The workshop aimed to integrate nutrition related program, project, and activities in the respective AIPs of municipalities and in the province as well for better allocation of fund in nutrition.
During the opening program, PNAO Willard B. Mortos delivered the inspirational message in behalf of Governor Jose R. Riano. According to him, the AIP online workshop will be helpful for the LGUs for them to properly and appropriately allocate funds for their PPAs. In addition, he also shared that the province provide hazard allowances to all Local Nutrition Workers in the LGUs for unceasing work even in the midst of pandemic. He closes his message by thanking all the LNWs for their continuous effort in providing nutrition-related services within their community.
Participating LGUs including the province were divided in 4 groups during the workshop proper. Each group was closely facilitated by one regional office staff. There were connection difficulties encountered, however, NNC MIMAROPA staff managed to assist them through phone calls and provide a step-by-step direction in creating their AIP outputs.
As for the closing program, selected LGUs shared their experiences in creating their AIPs and their insights regarding the activity as well. Representatives presented their accomplished AIPs and most agreed that the AIP Workshop was a very helpful in improving their budget allocation in implementing nutrition-related PPAs and it was an eye opener for them to align it with their Municipal Nutrition Aaction Plans. Ms. Camille Chen, Nutrition Officer III of NNC MIMAROPA discussed the next steps that the LGUs needs to take action.
NNC MIMAROPA will continuously provide technical assistance in improving the implementation of nutrition related PPAs in the region as intervention in addressing nutrition problems and reducing malnutrition in the region.
Written by: NO I Ace Patriarca
