BUTUAN CITY- Following the process of establishing the Learning Hub for Enhanced and Revitalized Nutrition (LHEARN) in Tandag City, a follow-up visit was conducted by the National Nutrition Council Caraga on 23 February 2022 to package nutrition programs ready for showcasing nutrition related practices in the city.

Dr. Nino Archie S. Labordo, the Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator of NNC Caraga recommended that the local government unit (LGU) of Tandag should identify nutrition features that will encourage other LGUs to benchmark nutrition in the city.

LHEARN is a capacity building platform that facilitates the sharing of knowledge and experience in nutrition program management among LGUs for improved nutrition.

In the workshop conducted in 2022, Tandag City identified set of good/effective and comprehensive nutrition interventions and practices, to include: First 1,000 days – K-ISA Program- Kinabuhi sa isa kalibong Adlaw- focused on Infant and young child feeding practices, Nutrition in Emergencies, PIMAM, Nutrition Promotion and Behavior Change, dietary supplementation program to nutritionally-at-risk pregnant, preschool children, and school children, overweight and obesity Management and Prevention.

Under the nutrition sensitive programs, Tandag is a better implementer of adolescent health and development programs, responsible parenthood and family planning, sustained Livelihood assistance program through people’s organization and increasing food security.

Meanwhile, enabling programs, particularly governance, include enactment of laws and policies, building a high caliber organizational structure, capacity development and financing.

City Nutrition Action Officer, Dr. Reyveen John Geli assured that the City Government of Tandag will be appreciative if the project is pursued in the city.

In his scheduled meeting with the City Nutrition Committee Chairperson, Mayor Roxanne C. Pimentel, Dr. Geli will relay about the project and will request a special order for the creation of the LHEARN technical working group who will lead the packaging of programs.

Meanwhile, Dr. Labordo encouraged the City Nutrition Office to explore partnership with other departments practicing nutrition-related interventions.

The City of Tandag has been identified as a LHEARN hub based on the merits and recognition received at the local and national levels.

Recently, the city was awarded a Green Banner Seal of Compliance and a consistent recipient of the Seal of Good Local Governance. #NASLbordo