In spite of the growing economy in the Philippines, it is still pretty undeniable that poverty and hunger are still on the mainstream issues today. However, the National Nutrition Council had been unflagging to address those problems pushing through the promotion and advocacy in eradicating malnutrition. Hence, to combat this growing concern, significant activities were undertaken.
Part of this endeavor, is the Gulayan sa Masa Program, one of the programs of the government aiming to wipe out hunger and poverty, and also, a food production activity which can access to affordable and ready available vegetables. Related activities undertaken were the Search for “Best Gulayan sa Barangay” and “Gulayan sa Opisina” project , now on its fourth phase and the Search for “Best Breastfeeding Room/ Station” through the initiative of the Regional Nutrition Committee.
The Search for Best Gulayan sa Barangay and Gulayan sa Opisina basically aims to promote food security, increase food supply and to boost awareness of the community on the significance of growing vegetables in their backyards/community that is nutritious, safe and economical. Moreover, these projects are open to all Regional line Agencies (Gulayan sa Opisina) and among the barangays in the region maintained by the Barangay Nutrition Committee and/or organized community groups (Gulayan sa Barangay).

On the otherhand, as highlighted with the 2016 Nutrition Month Theme, “First 1000 days ni baby, pahalagahan para sa malusog na kinabukasan”, which encourages practice of breastfeeding in support with the Republic Act 10028, otherwise known as “Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009”, and the Breastfeeding Awareness Month this August, the Search for Best Breastfeeding Station is as well pushed. As part of the mechanics, the search is open to all health and non-health facilities, establishments or institutions, private and public sector with only 1 entry per province and city.
Meanwhile, the regionwide search is on going and will continue through the last week of September. Winners will be recognized on the upcoming Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony on October 27, 2016.

BY: DANAH PEARL G. AUREL