General Santos City, known as the "Tuna Capital of the Philippines," has joined the National Nutrition Council's 48th Nutrition Month Celebration, with a launching event in the city. This year's Nutrition Month theme, "NEW NORMAL NA NUTRITION, SAMA-SAMANG GAWAN NG SOLUSYON!" represents the country's heart and hope in combating malnutrition while embracing the pandemic's aftermath.
The event was organized by the General Santos City Nutrition Council (CNC) and City Health Office, led by Doc. Jett Oco, GenSan's City Health Officer and City Nutrition Action Officer, and Batang Star Philippines, Inc. (BATANG STAR), led by their Founder and CEO Mr. Dward Lacanilao-Zurriaga.
Hon. Lorelie Geronimo-Pacquiao, the city's Chief Executive, attended the event and delivered an inspiring message to her constituents, citing her personal experience of how vicious malnutrition is when her children have it during the poverty years of their life. Furthermore, Mayor Lorelie has stated that he has her heart and priority on the city's nutrition programs. Vice Mayor Rosalita T. Nuez delivered a speech on her behalf through her representative, Atty. Arnel Zapatos.
Retsebeth M. Laquihon, RND, MPD, MDM, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) XII, was also in attendance as the event's Keynote Speaker. She emphasizes the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, improved leadership, and good governance in breaking the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition. She also mentioned the establishment of a nutrition office with full-time staff. As we build resilience and move to a better new normal, CNAO and staff will strengthen nutrition collaboration and efficient management of local nutrition programs.
Dr. Brick Mirabueno, President of the Philippine Medical Association of GenSan City (PMA-GSC), also attended the event and led the declaration of oath on the Nutrition Pledge of Commitment. Dr. Carlos G Susarno, CESE of DepEd GenSan City's Assistant Schools Division Superintendent (ASDS), was also present and delivered the launching's closing remarks.
Finally, the Batang Star Philippines, Inc. (BATANG STAR) street children performed intermission numbers to entertain the guests, participants, and spectators.(FMM/AMF/RNPCRML)
