The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Health Office, kicked off the 50th Nutrition Month Celebration with the theme "Sa PPAN: Sama-sama sa Nutrisyong Para sa Lahat” on July 8, 2028 at the Provincial Capitol Lobby.
The theme underscores the importance of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) in advancing nutrition security for all, emphasizing collaborative efforts across various sectors to enhance the nutrition situation in the country.
PHO chief Dr. Maria Socorro C. Quiñon welcomed partners and nutrition advocates during the launching program, stressing that the vision of MoRProGRes Iloilo is hindered by malnutrition which primarily causes poverty. Thus, the improvement of the health and nutritional status of Ilonggos is crucial.
MoRProGRes Iloilo or Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally-Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo is a development agenda of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. aimed at propelling progress in the province of Iloilo.
"We have to do something now, not tomorrow. Do not procrastinate, because no country can break out of poverty or sustain economic advances when so much of their population is unable to achieve the nutritional security needed for a healthy and productive life," she said.
Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Banias delivered a message on behalf of Governor Defensor. In his speech, Banias called for unified efforts towards eradicating malnutrition in the province and highlighted the importance of good health to education.
“State of nutrition impacts the state of the mind—the state of education of our children. The number one cause of discontinuing schooling is still poverty. That’s why Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. has repeatedly said that the underlying factors in all of these are poverty and food security," he said.
Meanwhile, Millie L. Kilayko, president of the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation Inc. served as the guest speaker. NVC is a private organization promoting health and nutrition by implementing a nutrition program for children from underprivileged families.
"From that time in August [2023], we have almost 800 children now enrolled in our nutrition program. That is not an accident. That is by choice because we have seen in the province of Iloilo a heartfelt dedication towards zero malnutrition," she said.
Kilayko lauded the province of Iloilo for its steadfast campaign in curbing malnutrition.
“I believe in the province of Iloilo — you are going to be the first province in the country that will have zero malnutrition. We are here to partner with you because we believe in the power of Iloilo Province to make a difference," she said.
The program concluded with the signing of a pledge of commitment among the stakeholders and the different sectors to foster partnerships and collaboration toward achieving a malnutrition-free province of Iloilo.
(By: Vic Arroyo/ UPV Intern)
#MoRProGResILOILO
