KORONADAL CITY— The National Nutrition Council XII in partnership with Region XII BNS Federation Inc., held its first Regional Barangay Nutrition Scholars’ Conference at the South Cotabato Gym and Cultural Center, Koronadal City last November 13-14, 2018, with the theme, “BNS: Bayani ng nutrisyon, noon, ngayon at bukas!”.
A total of 905 BNSs from the four provinces (Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato province) and five cities (Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, General Santos and Cotabato) in the region had gathered for the 2-day activity.
The conference aims to mobilize the Barangay Nutrition Scholars on their roles and responsibilities for the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2017-2022, by aligning their respective Barangay Nutrition Action Plans along PPAN programs.
Dr. Fatima Emban, OIC-Assistant Regional Director of DOH XII graced the event representing Regional Director, Dr. Aristides Tan. She emphasized the importance of Volunteerism, Integrity and Commitment among the BNS being the frontliners in the delivery of nutrition services to eradicate malnutrition.
Aside from the action planning activities which was facilitated by NO III Annalita Mae Flores, the event also featured lectured discussions about the role of BNS in PPAN 2017-2022 by NPC Latonio, Management of Acute Malnutrition, Spirit of Volunteerism and Personality development with caliber speakers invited, namely, Ms. Jessen Masukat, Nutritionist-Dietitian IV of DOH XII, Ms. Maria Ana Uy, PNAO of South Cotabato Province and Ms. Judith Janiola, Population Program Officer I of LGU GenSan, that will help in advancing their knowledge and skills. The BNSs had also learned about “Wastong Nutrition, Alamin, Gawin, Palaganapin” discussed by NO II Leah Fe Utlang, highlighting the most frequently asked questions that BNSs should know in the real setting.
Ms. Rea Bagagunio, NO II of Nutrition Policy and Planning Division, gave light to the updates of the BNS Program scoping the implementing guidelines, medical survivorship assistance and availment of NNC travelling allowance followed by an open forum which allowed an opportunity to clarify and address BNS-related issues and concerns.
Moreover, seven (7) entries vied for BNS talent showdown on the second day. South Cotabato province bagged 1st place receiving a total cash prize of 5,000 Php. On the other hand, Cotabato province won 2nd place and General Santos City on 3rd place.
The president of the federation, Ms. Creamhield Bation, had also led the general assembly and presented their involvements in various activities, status of fund and accomplishments. It was then trailed by the Panunumpa ng BNS, marking the closing ceremony of the activity.
Nutrition Program Coordinator, Ms. Arceli M. Latonio was very grateful for the unexpected jam-packed participation of the BNSs. She hopes that this event will be a venue for the members to strengthen their organization’s operation and in the coming years.
The birth of the BNS program was promulgated thru PD 1569 of 1978 to improve the nutrition situation of the barangays, now celebrating its 40 years in recognition to the unheralded heroes in the field of nutrition. (DPAurel/NPC)
