In the wake of observed low appreciation and use of iodized salt, there is a need for stronger advocacy and information and education campaigns, not only with the public but most especially with the producers. 

In its recent online meeting, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Nona B. Tad-y recommended for a closer tie-up with local government units in the passing of revised or reformulated ordinances responsive to the situation of covid19.

“They have to be guided, not only requested, especially in revisiting existing ordinances,” Tad-y said, adding that when the situation warrants field visits, even the locations of local producers, and the ports where the salts are delivered, should be part of ocular monitoring.

According to the 2019 visitation and monitoring visits report of iodized salt points of entry, producers and distributors, numerous violations, including the aspects of sanitation, were recorded.

The RBATF recommended compliance and this needed to be monitored, according to Tad-y.

Meanwhile, Cooperative Development Authority Regional  Director Doreen Ancheta, said the suppliers should be urged to follow the standards stipulated in the ASIN Law through advocacy and continuing education.

She cited the distribution of flyers and other materials in the local dialect, coupled with strict monitoring, especially reaching out to distributors and users in far flung areas.

The task force agreed on actions to be undertaken next year, such as field visits to ports of entry of iodized salts, step up advocacy and information dissemination, review and enrich the 2021 RBATF plan, and the Development Cooperative Authority to help reproduce flyers in support of IEC Advocacy activities.