BUTUAN CITY- Nutrition implementers from the various local government units of Surigao del Norte, including Surigao City, and staff of the Provincial Nutrition Office attended the three-day Training of Trainers on Community Maternal, Neonatal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition on 5-7 December 2022 at EY Miner Suites, Surigao City.

The training invited the primary nutrition implementers per LGU to include the Municipal Health Officer, Municipal Nutrition Action Officer, public health nurse, midwife and other nutrition advocates.

NNC Caraga, OIC Dr. Niño Archie Labordo actively discussed the Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Counselling.

He emphasized the three main processes of counselling: assess, analyze and act. Additionally, the discussion enumerated the six listening and learning skills, which include (1) using helpful non-verbal communication; (2) asking open questions; (3) using responses and gestures which show interest; (4) reflect back on what the mother says; (5) empathize; and (6) avoid words that sound judging.

After the discussion, participants demonstrated each skill and utilized the checklist on how to conduct proper counselling. 

Dr. Labordo encouraged the participants to not just provide information to mothers and care givers, but it is necessary to listen.

The training is being funded by UNICEF Philippines as part of the recovery effort for areas mostly affected by typhoon Odette in Caraga region. #NASLbaordo