The municipal launching of the 48th Nutrition Month Celebration was held on July 7 in Barangay Napalico, Arakan, Cotabato with a total of 100 mothers/caregivers, 200 pre-school children, senior citizens, and 50 Persons with disability (PWD) attended.

During the launching, the Municipal Nutrition Committee (MNC) members unite their efforts to deliver various services like advocacy and promotion of the First 1000 days of life, distribution of “Pinggang Pinoy” brochure for pregnant/lactating mothers, and campaign for oral health care and healthy lifestyle for pregnant mothers to improve the maternal and infant health and nutritional status.

The provision of vegetable seeds for selected mothers was also one of the highlights of the activity to encourage households to establish backyard gardens for safe, fresh and nutritious food consumption.

There were also a variety of Nutrition Month Contests organized, like search for the best booth/table display and menu innovation contest to encourage the participants to prepare and utilize low-cost, easy to prepare, nutritious, and age-appropriate complementary food intended for 6-23 months old Children.

Dr. Karen Mae S. Canario the Municipal Health Officer (MHO) reiterated the importance of care, support, access to health, and nutrition services for a safe and healthy pregnancy and to provide a child a successful first 1000-day journey. Further, she encourages everyone to participate in every local activity, particularly in the promotion of health and nutrition. (NOIII Flores/ RNPC Laquihon)