Antequera, Bohol – The Municipal Nutrition Committee (MNC) of this basket capital of Bohol purchased height boards and weighing scales for all its elementary schools in the municipality. This is to ensure the collection of quality nutrition data which will serve as the basis for program planning and prioritization of its program beneficiaries.

MNC Chairman and Municipal Mayor Hon. Jose Mario Pahang together with MNAO Mrs. Tarcisia R. Baluca turned over the 17 anthropometric tools to the school heads of all public elementary schools of the municipality on 06 February 2023 after the flag raising ceremony held at the Antequera Municipal Hall Grounds.

Childhood malnutrition continues to be a public health concern in resource-challenged communities including Antequera. According to a UNICEF study, children with poor nutrition in the first 1000 Days are 10X more likely at risk for most life-threatening childhood diseases, have a problem completing school by 4.6 grades, have reduced capacity to earn wages as adults by 21%, and more likely as adults will have unhealthy families. It is imperative that their nutritional status be regularly monitored and continuously provided with adequate food and proper nutrition to maximize their full potential and contribute to the development of their communities. ND II, Sarah Belle I. Antiola, RND