19 July 2021, Cagayan de Oro City – The Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET) is currently conducting monitoring and evaluation (M & E) activities, including the Search for the Regional Outstanding Local Nutrition Focal Points. This began in 7 June 2021. A mix of face-to-face and online evaluations were done by the RNET, depending on the quarantine restrictions of the local government unit (LGU).

This year marks the maiden evaluation for Nutrition Action Officers (NAOs), and District/City Nutrition Program Coordinators (D/CNPCs), following the postponement of M & E activities in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) have been evaluated long before, as early as 1996.

LGUs, focal points and RNET alike were quick to adjust to the virtual conduct of M & E activities. An advisory was also issued on how to facilitate such virtual activities, particularly the evaluation for BNSs. For the face-to-face evaluations held, the RNET and the LGU made sure to follow the minimum health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

As of date, the RNET has evaluated six (6) Regional Outstanding BNS contenders and one Provincial Nutrition Action Officer. While it is encouraged to pursue M & E activities to assess performance of nutrition focal points, some workers opted to prioritize nutrition program implementation and COVID-19 nutrition response, while other LGUs are still waiting for the "go signal" of local leaders, and are therefore unable to subject themselves for the focal point evaluation.

The RNET expects to evaluate a total of 13 nutrition focal points, including NAOs, D/CNPCs and BNSs.

Evaluation results will be discussed by the RNET members on 25 August 2021 to determine the regional contenders to the national search for outstanding nutrition focal points. Contenders and winners to the regional search will be awarded during the Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony, tentatively scheduled on November 2021. (NO III Sheena Marie G. Talle)