In celebration of the National Women’s Month, the National Nutrition Council IX (NNC9) successfully conducted a webinar on “Healthy Diet and Lifestyle for Working Women” last March 22, 2022, via Google Meet and FB live. The topic was discussed by Ms. Maria Dolores M. Paredes, the Chief Dietitian of Zamboanga City Medical Center and one of the Board of Directors of the National Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines – Zamboanga Peninsula chapter. The virtual activity was attended by no-less than 164 participants composed mostly of RNAHC Technical Working Group members, RLA Information Officers, Nutrition Action Officers, Local Nutrition Program Coordinators, DOH9-HRH Nutritionist-Dietitians, Zamboanga City Schools Division teaching and non-teaching staff and Barangay Nutrition Scholars. 

In her discussion, Ms. Paredes gave emphasis and elaborated on the Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Eating, best healthy eating practices, health reminders for working women, ways on how to manage stress, and some key messages on health and nutrition of all women. She pointed out that maintaining a healthy diet coupled with staying a positive lifestyle while trying to balance the demands of work and staying fit and healthy are the elements to become productive individuals. Participants, especially working women, are encouraged to plan a healthy diet and lifestyle for themselves and their families and should follow the goals and objectives for the betterment of their overall wellbeing.

The event was concluded with a meaningful message from NO III Mr. Elton Pelegrino that goes,…“A strong woman knows she has enough strength for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is in the journey where she will become strong.” With the country still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, studies and data show that the health crisis stalled movements toward gender equality, worsening inequalities, further exposing gender gaps, and exacerbating vulnerabilities in social and political, and economic aspects. With all of these, we need to continue empowering our women of today and NNC9 is one with our country on this advocacy because we all need to make change truly work for women especially in these times of the New Normal and in the days to come.  

PNFP Karla P. Calapardo, RND