13 September 2021, Cagayan de Oro City – After months of virtual and face-to-face monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities, the Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET) has concluded this year’s round of M&E despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The RNET tallied a total nine (9) local government units (LGUs) monitored, evaluated, and assisted through the monitoring and functionality tools, and 13 nutrition focal points evaluated. Series of technical assistance were given to LGUs vying for national awards, and regular Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation (MELLPI) for provinces and highly urbanized cities. 2019 performance of LGUs and focal points were evaluated.

Seven (7) RNET members were mobilized for the said activities, with Dr. Arlita Amapola B. Minguez, RNET Chair and CHED representative leading the team. Accompanying Dr. Minguez were: RNET Vice Chair Ms. Telesfora G. Madelo (Department of Health Center for Health Development-Northern Mindanao), Ms. Tricia Marie L. Antivo (National Economic and Development Authority X), Ms. Eva T. Pacturan (Department of Agriculture 10), Engr. Junelyn Lou Vena B. Ruiz (Department of Science and Technology-Misamis Oriental), Ms. Analee T. Sabando (Department of Agrarian Reform), and Ms. Jasper Marie O. Rucat (Philippine Information Agency 10). On the other hand, the National Nutrition Council X through Nutrition Program Coordinator Gladys Mae S. Fernandez and her staff acted as the Secretariat for all M&E activities by coordinating with the LGUs and RNET, preparing for the activities, consolidating of evaluation results, and facilitating post-evaluation activities.

The annual MELLPI and related activities aim to monitor and evaluate the performance of LGUs in securing nutrition for their constituents, vis-à-vis nutrition outcomes, to further improve nutrition policies, and program management towards greater effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability. (NO III Sheena Marie G. Talle)