SOCCSKSARGEN---The National Nutrition Council XII held a Webinar on Good Nutrition in the First 1000 days (F1KD) of Life via Zoom Videoconference on March 31, 2022. The activity also concludes the celebration of Women’s Month which was attended by around 101 participants composed of Local Nutrition Focal Points and Women of Child-bearing age in the region.

The objectives of the said webinar include: (a) Discuss NNC Overview and Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (b) To increase awareness on the importance of proper nutrition during the First 1000 days of life (c) Disseminate the recommended F1KD activities among Local Nutrition Focal Points and Pregnant/Lactating Mothers and (d) Promote collaboration and support in good maternal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy.

During the activity, RNPC Retsebeth Laquihon encouraged everyone in her welcome remarks to scale-up First 1000 days interventions and help strengthen the advocacy as we continue to fight malnutrition in the country. She also underscored that valuing health and nutrition contributes to children's overall growth and development.

The webinar highlighted topics on Maternal Health and Nutrition and Recommended Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices discussed by Mr. Jayson C. Pulido, RND and                                Ms. Francy E. Aguilar, RND, MSHSM respectively.

During the open forum, NO III Annalita Mae Flores stressed the significance of being personally aware of one's nutritional status, as well as the importance of everyone taking responsibility to improve health-seeking behaviors to improve maternal health.

The right nutrition and care during the 1000-day window influences not only the child's survival, but also the child's ability to grow, learn, and rise out of poverty. As a result, it contributes to the long-term health, stability, and prosperity of society. (NOII DPA/NO III/RNPC)