Cebu City ­– On 18 January 2022, a forum was initiated by the Central Visayas Regional Development Council to discuss a Roadmap Study on how COVID-19 affects the different critical sectors of the government in the region. The study was handled by the Cebu Normal University to collect vital data for future-proofing Central Visayas against pandemics like COVID-19.

The presentation included the situational analysis on the critical sectors such as environmental, economic, health, etc. being greatly affected by the pandemic, it’s somewhat inevitable that nutrition problems will rise as well. Like in the case of the environmental sector included the study of water quality and accessibility and disposal of wastes, that poses a risk to health and nutrition. On the morbidity and mortality data, there are causes that are diet related and therefore modifiable if appropriate interventions can be instituted. 

Although initial data presented was not promising, nevertheless speaking from a nutrition perspective, even though we experience a setback we keep pushing to achieve good nutrition. It’s never an easy job but we strive and engage as many sectors possible especially the mainstream media in spreading and sharing the practice of good health and proper nutrition. NNC 7 will continue pursue its social and behavior change communication strategies for proper and optimal nutrition for all. // NO I Gab Flores, RND