The Local Government Unit of Isabela City in collaboration with the National Nutrition Council Regional Office IX conducted a 3-day training on Basic Course for Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) on February 18-20, 2020 at Cityinn Hotel, Zamboanga City. The training aims to capacitate and educate 38 Barangay Nutrition Scholars especially those who are newly deployed to achieve their core competencies in order to perform their tasks effectively. The continued development of their skills, knowledge and values are important to effectively perform their duties and responsibilities. As Ms. Jesielyn Puno, City Nutrition Action Officer of Isabela City, said that the BNSs are among the key stakeholders for nutrition improvement at the local level.
At the start of the 3-day training, OIC-NPC Nimfa D. Ekong gave the overview of the BNS program and discussed the Presidential Decree 1569 entitled “Strengthening the Barangay Nutrition Program by providing a Barangay Nutrition Scholar in every barangay, providing funds thereof and for other purposes”. Also in her discussion she mentioned the qualities for the selection and recruitment of BNSs as well as their benefits. To serve as an inspiration, OIC-NPC Ekong also shared to the participants the qualifications and rewards of becoming the Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar so that they will give their best in performing their duties and functions.
Furthermore, a review of the food and nutrition concepts, the different forms, causes and consequences of malnutrition were also discussed to the participants to have a better understanding of the negative effects of malnutrition. As such, the efforts to reduce the prevalence of malnutrition has been done at the local, national and international levels. This emphasizes the importance on the roles and functions of BNSs as they are considered as the prime movers of nutrition. While the BNSs target individuals and families in their community, the collective effort of all BNSs in integrating nutrition will surely have an impact in the entire country.
The 3-day training was filled with learnings, skills development, realizations of roles and functions and inspiration to each participant. OIC-NPC Ekong expressed her gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Isabela City and to their City Mayor, Honorable Sitti Djalia T. Hataman for funding the activity and the continued support of the LGU in the implementation of nutrition programs. May the LGU of Isabela City also serve as a model to other LGUs in supporting the nutrition programs as an effort to help eradicate malnutrition in their locality and in the country.
With this 3-day training, LGU-Isabela City provided the financial support and the National Nutrition Council RO IX provided technical assistance and the BNS kits.
Together, we can improve the nutrition situation in Isabela City and in the region. Make the nutrition program a PRIORITY.
