30 September 2021 (Cagayan de Oro City) – National Nutrition Council X joins the observance of Linggo ng Kabataan and International Youth Day with the theme “Transforming Food System: Youth innovation for human and planetary health”.

The celebration honors young Filipino heroes who have made significant contributions to the country's development. “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan,” (The youth is the hope of our nation), as Dr. Jose Rizal put it.

A youth is defined as anyone between the ages of 15 to 24 years old, regardless of gender. Youths are the backbone of the society and determine the society's future. A handful of responsibilities are in play because their families, communities, and country's future are at the palm of their hands.

Linggo ng Kabataan aims to create safe fora for our youths to communicate with one another given they have already encountered hurdles in terms of employment, drug usage, and HIV/AIDS, but there are ways to resolve these obstacles.

On the contrary, there are a growing number of youths who are leaving their mark in every field. Politics, medicine, and social services, to name a few.

As part of the celebration of Linggo ng Kabataan, youth empowerment is a means of encouraging youth in whatever way possible. Nurturing them to have a healthy lifestyle while serving the community can go a long way.

Here are some additional reminders to ensure the youth’s overall health and well-being:

• Eat regular meals, especially breakfast. This keeps the body fueled and will give the energy needed for the day.
• Cut down on high fat and high sugar foods. One doesn’t have to give up one’s favorite cookies or cheeseburger. Just eat them less and eat more of the healthy snacks instead. Try having fruit and popcorn instead of cookies and ice cream. Drink fruit juice instead of soda.
• Remember to remain active and exercise or join a sport.
• Get enough rest and sleep.
• Do not smoke and do not drink alcoholic beverages.

Nothing compares to the splendor of youth. To be young is to possess a treasure of limitless value far more than any powerful person. Let us encourage the youth to take up space by equipping them with the necessary resources, direction, positive environment and healthy eating habits so that they can become powerful change agents in their communities. (PNFP Gwyn Balaba)

References:

DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute. Pinggang Pinoy Adolescence. Retrieved on 30 September 2021 from https://businessmirror.com.ph/2018/01/25/dost-fnri-pinggang-pinoy-guides-teens-on-smart-eating/

What is youth empowerment and what is its importance. (20 December 2020). Retrieved on 30 September 2021. www.unnatiblr.org//medium.com/@unnatiblr123/what-is-youth-empowerment-and-what-is-importance-ec3415b1c865">https://medium.com/@unnatiblr123/what-is-youth-empowerment-and-what-is-importance-ec3415b1c865

2021 Linggo ng Kabataan. Retrieved on 30 September. https://rpo8.popcom.gov.ph/2021-linggo-ng-kabataan/

Pag-Obserba sa Linggo ng Kabataan at International Youth Day (IYD) 2021. (23 August 2021) Retrieved on 30 September 2021. https://dilg.gov.ph/issuances/mc/Pag-Obserba-sa-Linggo-ng-Kabataan-at-International-Youth-Day-IYD-2021/3427