The Department of the Interior and Local Government has pledged its support in enhancing the capabilities of Local Nutrition Councils to fight malnutrition as the National Nutrition Council (NNC) calls every Filipino to support the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) during the 50th National Nutrition Month Celebration held today, July 1, at the South Cotabato Gym, Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

“These councils are at the forefront of the fight against malnutrition, understanding the unique needs of their communities. By providing them with the necessary training, resources, and policy guidance, we empower them to implement effective, localized nutrition programs that can make a real difference in our communities,” OIC-Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero said during the said event, representing the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, Atty. Benjamin C. Abalos Jr.  

“The DILG with the leadership of Atty. Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr. also have an unwavering commitment to securing permanent positions for our Barangay Health Workers and Nutrition Scholars. This commitment is not only a recognition of their hard work and dedication but also a vital step towards strengthening our local health and nutrition services,” Director Sero further added.

With the theme, “Sa PPAN: Sama-sama para sa Nutrisyong Sapat para sa Lahat [Through PPAN, let’s collaborate on Nutrition for All],” NNC aims to highlight PPAN’s multisectoral approach in addressing malnutrition and promoting nutritional security.

This resounding call came after the Nutrition International estimated that the country will lose an estimated of US$48 billion (Php 2.3 trillion) in productivity by 2030 due to child stunting, NNC reported.

PPAN targets to reduce child stunting in the country to at least 17.9 percent by 2028, or about two million children in 2028 from four million in 2012.

Apart from reducing child stunting, the country aims to avoid the US$1 Billion productivity lose by reducing the prevalence of low birth weight among infants by 2028.

“We can prevent as much as 5, 000 child deaths and 1,400 maternal deaths annually when optimal breastfeeding is practiced,” said NNC’s Executive Director Assistant Secretary Dr. Azucena Dayanghirang, as she urged all members of the community to support breastfeeding mothers.

Director Sero further urged the public to foster unity and collaboration for a “Bagong Pilipinas na may nutrisyong sapat para sa lahat.”