Garcia Hernandez, Bohol – Evaluation is always being feared of by many. Several people shy away from evaluation as most often we don’t want to be judged. But not for the Barangay Nutrition Committee of Candulao, a small agricultural barangay in Garcia Hernandez, Bohol.
This happened when Garcia Hernandez was visited by Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET) on 01 June 2022 as one of the municipalities randomly chosen by the team as sample municipalities for the MELLPI Pro of Bohol province. As a practiced by the Central Visayas RNET and in compliance to an RNC Resolution expanding the reach of MELLPI Pro for technical assistance, the team also evaluated three randomly selected barangays.
Even though the Barangay Candulao was not picked, the Barangay Nutrition Committee Chair, Punong Barangay Viemar Ladesma insisted that his barangay be visited. Hence, the RNET composed of RNPC Dr. Parolita Mission and Bohol IMO Jon Luzmar Empenado included his barangay. The team assessed their barangay nutrition program implementation using the MELLPI Pro tool, evaluated the skills of BNSs and BHWs in nutrition assessment and IYCF counseling skills. One good practice the BNC is implementing is mandating all households to maintain backyard garden with at least 5 variety of plants in it. The BNC also approved a barangay resolution for this initiative for sustainability.
Every year, the RNET conducts its yearly MELLPI Pro in the different provinces in Central Visayas. Bohol Province was evaluated on 30 May to 03 June 2022. The first 3 days included evaluation of three randomly selected municipalities and desk review of the Provincial Nutrition Committee data in the remaining two days.
According to RNPC Dr. Mission that it was indeed a satisfying to hear partners volunteering to have their performance scrutinized and willingness to listen to the recommendations provided by the RNET members for further improvement in their program implementation. The volunteerism attitude of BNC Candulao is an exemplary practice for other BNCs and MNCs to emulate. // ND II Marcel John J. Cartin, RND
