Cebu City - Food security, as defined by the United Nation’s Committee on Food Security, means that all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their food preferences and dietary needs for an active and healthy lifestyle. It is also described as a condition when people have the access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods in the right amounts to have optimal nutrition for all. It is also require that food items are produced in a sustainable environment. Food security is also the right of people to make informed decisions in regards to their food choices and preferences. 

However, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the government to ensure food security in each household and individuals. The access to nutritious and adequate food sources was hampered due to reoccurrences of lockdowns in selected areas. There are times where household or individuals cannot easily go to their local supermarkets or wet markets to shop for their weekly or daily consumption. 

As a government response, the Department of Agriculture (DA) strengthened their Plant Plant Plant Program where “farmers are urged to plant more by providing them quality seeds, fertilizers and appropriate technical assistance” a call made by the DA’s Secretary William D. Dar. Households are also encouraged to establish food or vegetable garden in backyards and in any vacant lot, whether it is containerized or vertical gardening no matter how big or small the garden is as long as it provides food for the family it is therefore beneficial.

The human body as we know need food to thrive. Furthermore, the importance of nutrition must also be prioritized. Let us not forget that proper nutrition benefits the economy. It is required for body’s normal functioning and performance, improves brain function and essential for individual’s overall health, therefore, contributing to the operation of the whole economic state. // NO I Christine April M. Lopez, RND