TACLOBAN CITY – Amid the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) 8 endures to observe the 46th Nutrition Month Celebration with a motorcade around Tacloban City on 1 July, 2020.
Attended by 26 entities from the national government agencies, non-government organizations, academe, and local government units, the regional launching was successfully conducted. This year’s theme, “Batang Pinoy, SANA TALL… Iwas stunting, SAMA ALL!”, expresses the aspiration of Filipino families to have children who are able to achieve their fullest potential, which can be achieved when all agencies and development partners work together. The sub-theme “Iwas ALL din sa COVID-19.” is added as the entire country is threatened with the pandemic and community quarantine still in effect.
Focusing on catalyzing actions to address child stunting, the celebration specifically aims to raise awareness on the impact of stunting and evidence-based solutions among families and communities leading to change in behaviors to prevent stunting; stimulate national and local (including communities) discourse on stunting to understand its causes and the multi-sectoral solutions for increased investments in interventions and; generate concrete commitment among various stakeholders to scale-up nutrition actions.
Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator, Dr. Catalino P. Dotollo, Jr. shared during the Press Conference his call for multisectoral support to fight stunting and to prevent further malnutrition, especially during this health crisis. Meanwhile, in her message, Department of Health Regional Director and Regional Nutrition Chairperson, Dr. Minerva P. Molon, relayed that under the new normal, good nutrition is key to build immunity, protection against illness and infection, and support recovery.
To make the month-long celebration meaningful, the NNC scheduled a series of activities to include different online contests. To participate in the contests, kindly visit our Facebook page and be updated with the mechanics and the announcement of winners.
Presidential Decree 491 in 1974 declared that Nutrition Month shall be held every July to create greater awareness on the importance of nutrition among Filipinos. Likewise, the law mandates the National Nutrition Council (NNC) to coordinate and lead the nationwide campaign. #NASLabordo
