The regional team headed by RNPC Retsebeth M. Laquihon, with NOI Ruby Ann Laurito went north for an advocacy meeting and LNC functionality monitoring last March 28, 2022, for LGU Pigcawayan and March 29, 2022, for LGU Libungan.

The meeting provided an avenue to discuss nutrition-related concerns, precisely the nutrition situation of the two municipalities that belong to the Top 10 LGUs with high malnutrition prevalence rates in the region based on the OPT plus report for CY 2021. The NNC XII team advocates nutrition strategies to improve nutrition program management and implementation and nutritional status, especially in high-risk groups. RNPC Laquihon emphasizes the need to achieve at least 80% OPT coverage to reveal an accurate picture of the local nutrition situation of the LGU.

 Further, the team advocates the implementation of nutrition interventions aligned with PPAN 2017-2022, highlighting the six critical interventions for the First 1000 days of life and the proposed options for the organization of the Municipal Nutrition Office with technical staff for an improved and strengthened nutrition programs of the LGU.

Moreover, the team highlighted the importance of a functional Local Nutrition Committee to efficiently and effectively implement and manage the nutrition program. RNPC suggested that LNC convene for a regular quarterly meeting, craft their Local Nutrition Action Plan, and ensure the integration of planned programs, projects and activities in the Local Development Plan and Annual Investment Plan with budget allocation.

NNC XII will continue to provide technical assistance for a better nutrition program for the improvement and sustainability of health and nutrition outcomes. (NOILaurito/NOIIIFlores/RNPCLaquihon)