The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), through the Provincial Nutrition Action Office (PNAO), kicked-off the celebration of the 2024 Nutrition Month by sustaining its programs on health and wellness.
The nutrition month is an annual campaign under the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) that aims to foster a healthy community. The theme for the 50th celebration, “Sa PPAN Sama-Sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat para sa Lahat,” underscores the importance of collective efforts to ensure adequate nutrition for the people.
Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc emphasized the significance of Nutrition Month, saying:
“Nutrition is important for the health and well-being of our community. We, in the Provincial Government, ensure that every Ilokano has access to the nutrition they need.”
As part of the celebration, PNAO organized a community outreach for nutrition in Ilocos Norte and the “Biggest Loser.”
Ms. Elma Irapta, head of PNAO, said, “the outreach program will involve the member agencies of the Provincial Nutrition Committee and various stakeholders, [and] together we aim to bring attention to and tackle the nutritional challenges faced by our communities.”
The “Biggest Loser,” on the other hand, aims to encourage Ilokanos to achieve and maintain healthy weights, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer,” Ms. Irapta added.
Moreover, the Provincial Government guarantees the continuation of the supplementary feeding for preschoolers and pregnant women to maintain the province’s low stunting rate.
Additionally, the Federation of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) in the province will conduct its annual Provincial BNS Congress this month to ensure the continuing education of their scholars.
Under the leadership of Gov. Marcos Manotoc, the provincial government strengthens its commitment to catering to the needs and changing demands of the people, including providing interventions for nutrition-related issues. (Kenneth Dhovan Natividad)
(Source: Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte)