National Nutrition Council - Calabarzon

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National Nutrition Council - Calabarzon

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Nurturing Filipinos and combating hunger and malnutrition in the CALABARZON Region.

Functions of the Regional Office

Execute policies, directives and guidelines set by the Office of the Executive Director at the regional level;

Coordinate the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition at the local level;

Provide technical assistance to local program implementers to enhance their involvement;

Establish and maintain functional linkages with agencies involved in the nutrition program;

Promote nutrition advocacy and undertake resource mobilization activities at the regional level;

Generate nutrition and related data and serve as monitoring and data base center for the regional PPAN;

Facilitate the provision of material support from various sources for the intended recipients in the nutrition program;

Serve as the Secretariat to the Regional Nutrition Committee and other regional nutrition-related committee; and

Perform such other functions as may be assigned.

30/10/2026

𝐍𝐍𝐂 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐒 𝐁𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐋𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐍𝐀 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐙𝐎𝐍

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) CALABARZON awarded the Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS) Travelling Allowance (TA) to the provinces of Laguna and Quezon on October 30, 2026, in Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

For Laguna, the BNS TA covered 24 municipalities and was received by Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) Prince Jervis Malleta and District Nutrition Program Coordinator (DNPC) Judy Melicio. Meanwhile, the allowance for Quezon covered the municipalities of Polillo, Burdeos, Quezon, and Mulanay and was received by PNAO Joan Maricel Zeta-Decena and DNPC Monette Manahan.

The BNS program recognizes the vital role of Barangay Nutrition Scholars in delivering nutrition services, promoting proper nutrition practices, and supporting the implementation of local nutrition programs. The BNS Travelling Allowance aims to help facilitate their mobility and enable them to carry out their duties effectively, particularly in reaching communities and delivering essential nutrition services.

The allowances were awarded by Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator (RNPC) Lourdes Orongan and Nutrition Officer III (NO III) Theresa Rivas of NNC CALABARZON, reaffirming the Council's commitment to strengthening community-based nutrition initiatives and supporting frontline nutrition workers.

Written by:
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

30/10/2026

𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒

The Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) Regional Training Center CALABARZON successfully conducted the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) Summit 2026 on 21–23 October 2026 at Solano Hotel, Lipa City. The three-day summit gathered around 300 participants from across CALABARZON, including representatives of Farmers' Information and Technology Services (FITS) Centers, Magsasaka Siyentista, Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and partner agencies. It served as a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the advancement of agricultural extension initiatives in the region.

As part of the summit, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) CALABARZON was represented by Project Development Officer (PDO) I Ms. Anne Nicole S. Gonzales, who delivered a presentation titled “From Farm to Nutrition: Strengthening the Link between Agriculture and Healthy Communities.” She highlighted the vital role of the agriculture sector in ensuring food and nutrition security, emphasizing the Farm-to-Table Food Path and how agricultural workers contribute to making safe, nutritious, and affordable food available to communities. She also discussed the different forms of malnutrition and their consequences, underscoring the importance of ensuring that food production translates into better nutrition outcomes.

Further, she presented the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023–2028, particularly its Pillar on Healthier Diets, which aims to improve the availability, accessibility, and affordability of nutritious food. She identified several programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) where agricultural workers and partners can actively contribute, including the establishment and monitoring of school, community, and workplace food gardens; setting up of KADIWA outlets; and participation in Dietary Supplementation Programs (DSPs). Other opportunities for collaboration include the provision of seeds and seedlings and agricultural livelihood assistance, with priority given to nutritionally at-risk households.

PDO I Gonzales also highlighted the 2026 Nutrition Month (NM) sub-theme, “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!”, which calls attention to the effects of environmental degradation and climate change on agriculture and food systems. She emphasized the need for collective action to protect the environment and promote sustainable and climate-resilient food systems as essential measures in safeguarding food availability and nutrition security.

In closing, she encouraged the participants to actively engage with their respective Local Nutrition Committees (LNCs) and explore opportunities to contribute to local nutrition initiatives.

The participation of NNC CALABARZON in the summit underscored that the pursuit of food and nutrition security goes beyond producing sufficient food; it also requires ensuring that nutritious food reaches every household and translates into healthier communities. By bringing together the agriculture and nutrition sectors, agricultural extension workers can become valuable partners in advancing nutrition-sensitive initiatives and building a food system that is sustainable, resilient, and responsive to the nutritional needs of the population.

Written by:
PDO I Anne Nicole S. Gonzales, RND
NO III Theresa A. Rivas, RND, MPH
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

National Nutrition Council (Official)
DA-Calabarzon
ATICalabarzon

30/10/2026

𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐋𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐍 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧; 𝐍𝐍𝐂 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

TAGAYTAY CITY, October 28-30, 2026 — The Municipality of Candelaria strengthened its commitment to improving local nutrition governance through its participation in the Learning Hub for Enhanced and Revitalized Nutrition (LHEARN) Session held on October 28–30, 2026, in Tagaytay City, with funding support from the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) CALABARZON.

The activity aimed to enhance the capacity of local government units (LGUs) to plan, implement, and monitor nutrition programs through peer learning, mentoring, and exposure to good practices from LGUs with established nutrition initiatives.

Led by Hon. Mayor George Suayan, the Candelaria delegation included Municipal Nutrition Action Officer (MNAO) Graciella Ramos, members of the Municipal Nutrition Committee (MNC), and two barangay chairpersons representing the municipality’s 25 barangays. The session was facilitated by the Tagaytay LHEARN Team composed of CNPCs and nutrition staff.

On the first day, participants visited Barangay Mendez Crossing West and Barangay Kaybagal South, both recognized as Barangay Nutrition Champions. The field visits provided the delegation with opportunities to observe community-based nutrition initiatives and learn how effective practices are implemented and sustained at the barangay level.

The exposure also highlighted the importance of strong local leadership and community participation in delivering nutrition services and sustaining nutrition programs.

On the second day, Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator (RNPC) of the National Nutrition Council (NNC), provided technical assistance to the Candelaria MNC, emphasizing the importance of investing in nutrition as a key strategy for improving public health and strengthening human capital.

She underscored that sustained investments in nutrition contribute to healthier communities and better development outcomes. She also encouraged local leaders to integrate nutrition priorities into local development plans and budgets to ensure adequate support for nutrition programs and interventions.

The technical assistance provided the Candelaria MNC with a stronger understanding of the policy and development rationale for investing in nutrition, reinforcing the importance of evidence-informed planning, adequate resource allocation, and sustained local commitment.

Following the session, the Tagaytay LHEARN Team will continue to monitor and provide guidance to Candelaria as an LHEARN enrollee, supporting the MNC in applying the lessons and good practices gained during the activity.

With funding support from PMNP CALABARZON, the initiative contributes to strengthening local capacities for nutrition governance and encouraging LGUs to prioritize nutrition in their development agenda.

Through continued collaboration, technical assistance, and knowledge-sharing, Candelaria aims to translate the lessons gained from the LHEARN Session into more responsive and sustainable nutrition programs for its constituents.

Written by:
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

National Nutrition Council (Official) Candelaria Municipal Nutrition Committee Nutri Tagaytay

30/10/2026

#𝐍𝐍𝐂𝟒𝐀𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: "𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐭𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐤𝐚𝐢𝐧, 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨, 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚-𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧!"

Every fourth week of October, the Philippines observes Food Safety Awareness Week to emphasize the importance of maintaining the quality, cleanliness, and safety of food. This observance was established through Proclamation No. 160, issued in August 1999 and signed by then-President Joseph Estrada.

Food safety refers to the proper handling, preparation, and storage of food to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Consuming contaminated food containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances can cause more than 200 diseases, ranging from diarrhea to certain types of cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 600 million people, or nearly one in ten individuals worldwide, become ill each year after consuming contaminated food. This results in an estimated 420,000 deaths and the loss of 33 million healthy years of life annually.

Food safety is closely linked to food security and nutrition. Consuming unsafe food can contribute to illness and malnutrition, creating a cycle that particularly affects infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened health. Recognizing these risks, the WHO continues to promote efforts to address the public health challenges associated with food contamination at both national and international levels.

Food contamination can occur at any stage of the food supply chain, including production, processing, distribution, preparation, and consumption. Therefore, proper food handling practices are essential in preventing foodborne diseases and ensuring that food remains safe for consumption.

To minimize the risk of contamination and food poisoning, it is important to observe the following food safety practices:
✅ 𝗞𝗘𝗘𝗣 𝗜𝗧 𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗡 - Keep food preparation areas clean. Thoroughly clean and sanitize all surfaces, equipment, and utensils used in preparing food.

✅ 𝗪𝗔𝗦𝗛 𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗦 and surfaces frequently. Wash hands before, during, and after food preparation, as well as before eating. Clean food preparation surfaces regularly to prevent contamination.

✅ 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗥𝗢𝗦𝗦 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from cooked foods, ready-to-eat products, and other ingredients. Wash fresh produce properly. Rinse fruits and vegetables under clean, running water to remove dirt and other contaminants.

✅𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗬. Ensure that food reaches the appropriate internal temperature to destroy harmful microorganisms that may cause illness.

Healthy eating goes beyond choosing nutritious foods and maintaining a balanced diet. It also involves practicing proper food preparation, handling, and storage to preserve food quality and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. By observing these simple but essential food safety measures, individuals and communities can help protect their health and promote safe and nutritious food for everyone.

Written by:
NO II Kyla C. Guarda, RND
NO III Theresa A. Rivas, RND, MPH
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

REFERENCES
The LawPhil Project (2026). Arellano Law Foundation. Proclamation No. 160, August 16, 1999. https://lawphil.net/executive/proc/proc1999/proc_160_1999.html

World Health Organization (2022). World Health Organization. Who.int; World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/

Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (ASPA. (2019, April 26). Keep Food Safe. FoodSafety.gov. https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2025 November 24). Four Steps (Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill) to Food Safety. https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/index.html

30/10/2026

𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐒: 𝐂𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐒 𝐁𝐍𝐒 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒𝐄 𝐓𝐎𝐓

Equipping nutrition workers with the knowledge and skills to train the next generation of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs), the Provincial Government of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Health Officer - Nutrition Cluster, conducted the Basic Course for BNS Training of Trainers (TOT) on 12–15 October 2026 at the Cavite Collaboration Center for Public Health Auditorium, Trece Martires City. The activity brought together Nutrition Action Officers (NAOs), Nutrition Program Coordinators (NPCs), and Nutrition Staff from the cities and municipalities of Cavite, preparing them to facilitate the Basic Course for BNS in their respective Local Government Units (LGUs).

The first day of the TOT opened with Welcome Remarks from Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) Ms. Dessa May R. Alibangbang, who welcomed the participants and expressed her appreciation for their participation in the capacity-building activity. This was followed by the leveling of expectations and an overview of the training course, facilitated by District Nutrition Program Coordinator (DNPC) Ms. Liberty M. Guzman. The participants also took the pre-test to assess their initial knowledge and understanding of the topics.

National Nutrition Council (NNC) CALABARZON’s Project Development Officer (PDO) I Ms. Anne Nicole S. Gonzales commenced the technical sessions with a discussion on the BNS Program. She highlighted Presidential Decree (PD) 1569 as the legal mandate for the establishment of the BNS Program, including the recruitment and benefits of BNSs, such as the BNS Travelling Allowance and Civil Service Eligibility. She also discussed the core roles and functions of BNSs, emphasizing their vital role as frontline nutrition workers who deliver nutrition services, monitor the nutrition situation in their communities, and mobilize families and other stakeholders toward improved nutrition outcomes. Further, she underscored the importance of embodying the core values of a BNS as these qualities are essential in serving and advocating for the nutritional well-being of their communities.

Provincial Health Officer (PHO) I Dr. Nelson C. Soriano also graced the activity and delivered his message of support, recognizing the importance of the training and reaffirming the Provincial Government's commitment to strengthening the capacities of nutrition workers through continuing learning and development initiatives.

The succeeding sessions, conducted until the fourth day, covered the modules on Basic Concepts on Food and Nutrition, Developing Skills of the BNS, Situating the Barangay Nutrition Program in the Local Development System, the BNS in Action, and Synthesis of the TOT. The sessions were facilitated by PNAO Alibangbang, DNPC Guzman, DNPC Ms. Marydel L. Pili, and Tanza Municipal Nutrition Action Officer (MNAO) Ms. Dorothy Ramirez. The participants also completed the post-test to assess their learning and knowledge gained throughout the training.

Conducting the Basic Course for BNS TOT is a crucial investment in sustaining and strengthening the BNS Program in Cavite. By preparing a pool of trained facilitators in the province, LGUs are better equipped to conduct the Basic Course at least once every two years, ensuring that newly recruited BNSs receive the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively carry out their responsibilities. More than simply transferring technical knowledge, this initiative helps ensure that every BNS is prepared, supported, and empowered to serve as a catalyst for better nutrition in their barangays.

Written by:
PDO I Anne Nicole S. Gonzales, RND
NO III Theresa A. Rivas, RND, MPH
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

National Nutrition Council (Official)
Cavite Nutrition Program

28/10/2026

𝗡𝗡𝗖 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗡𝗦 𝗡𝗨𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗠 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗔𝗣𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗡𝗨𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗖𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗦

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) successfully rolled out the eLearning Course on Nutrition Program Management (eNPM) for Regional Nutrition Shepherding Teams (RNSTs) and NNC Regional Office staff on 19–22 October 2026 via Zoom.

The four-day virtual training covered nutrition fundamentals, local nutrition governance, and the four phases of the NPM cycle: plan preparation and adoption, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability and re-planning. Through interactive workshops and group presentations, participants strengthened their practical skills in NPM while fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among NNC regional offices, partner regional agencies, and local government units (LGUs).

The training aimed to enhance participants' capacity to provide technical assistance to LGUs and other stakeholders in developing and implementing effective and sustainable nutrition programs and services, thereby contributing to the goals of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023–2028.

27/10/2026

𝐍𝐍𝐂 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐎𝐇 𝐂𝐇𝐃 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓

𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘, 𝟐𝟕 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 | The National Nutrition Council (NNC) and Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH CHD) CALABARZON reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening local nutrition governance through the validation of LGU nutrition indicators for the 2025 Seal of Good Local Governance and LGU Health Scorecard assessments.

Representing NNC CALABARZON, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator (RNPC) Ms. Lourdes Bulante-Orongan together with Nutrition Officers (NOs) Theresa A. Rivas and Samantha E. Bantilan, joined the DOH CHD CALABARZON representatives headed by Dr. Christopher Bayle, Regional LIPH/AOP Coordinator, in a special meeting to verify the accuracy and completeness of LGU nutrition indicators in Calabarzon.

The validation focused on two (2) key indicators: the Presence of Approved and Funded Local Nutrition Action Plan (LNAP) and; the Presence of Nutrition Action Officer (NAOs) with Adequate Staff Complement. The activity aimed to ensure that the data used in evaluating LGU performance accurately reflected the status of local nutrition planning and the institutional arrangements in place to support the implementation of nutrition programs, projects, and activities (PPAs).

During the meeting, RNPC Bulante-Orongan emphasized NNC’s mandate as the country’s highest policy-making and coordinating body on nutrition, particularly its role in providing technical assistance, and strengthening the capacities of LGUs. She also underscored the NNC’s support for the formulation and approval of LNAPs, stressing the importance of ensuring that local nutrition programs and interventions respond to the nutrition situation and needs of the communities. Furthermore, she highlighted the need to integrate LNAPs into local development plans and annual investment programs to align nutrition priorities with broader local development goals and resource allocation.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to share with the group and address clarifications regarding the nutrition indicators previously raised by the Local Nutrition Focal Points (LNFPs) during the CALABARZON Regional Nutrition Associations Meeting. Through these discussions, participants clarified the indicator requirements and established a common understanding of the data and supporting information needed to complete the database accurately and consistently.

The validation underscored the importance of reliable, complete, and consistent data in assessing local health and nutrition governance. Through strengthened coordination and collaboration, DOH CHD CALABARZON and NNC CALABARZON aim to support evidence-based assessments of LGU performance and help identify areas for improvement in local nutrition planning, institutional capacity, and program implementation across the region.

Written by:
NO II Samantha E. Bantilan, RND
NO III Theresa A. Rivas, RND, MPH
RNPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

National Nutrition Council (Official)

26/10/2026

𝐒𝐀𝐍 𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐎 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐊𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐄𝐂𝐂𝐃-𝐅𝟏𝐊𝐃 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆

𝗦𝗔𝗡 𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗦𝗖𝗢, 𝗤𝗨𝗘𝗭𝗢𝗡, 𝟭𝟯–𝟮𝟯 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 | The National Nutrition Council - Regional Nutrition Office (NNC-RNO) CALABARZON, through Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) Nutrition Officer II Mr. John Kentzee A. Solibaga assisted by Project Assistant I Ms. Mary Rose L. Comendador successfully conducted two (2) batches of the Training of Trainers on Early Childhood Care and Development in the First 1,000 Days (ECCD-F1K) – Idol Ko Si Nanay and Participatory Cooking Demonstration in San Francisco, Quezon. Representatives from the Quezon Provincial Nutrition Action Office Ms. Erikka Mae R. Chiong, Midwife II, and Ms. Ma. Chona S. Parafina, Nurse I, also assisted in the training.

A total of 79 participants completed the training, including District Nutrition Program Coordinators, Municipal Nutrition Action Officer, Municipal Project Management Office Staff, Child Development Workers, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, and Barangay Health Workers. The activity aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of local nutrition and health workers in providing nutrition education and promoting proper care and feeding practices during the first 1,000 days of life.

The Idol Ko Si Nanay training focused on the importance of maternal and child nutrition during the first 1,000 days, from pregnancy until a child reaches two years old. Through guided learning sessions, participants discussed maternal health and nutrition, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, child care, and other practices that support the healthy growth and development of children. The training also prepared participants to conduct learning sessions for mothers and caregivers in their respective communities.

Meanwhile, the Participatory Cooking Demonstration focused on promoting proper complementary feeding among children aged 6–23 months. Participants learned the importance of providing age-appropriate, nutritious, safe, and affordable complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding. The activity also highlighted proper food preparation, hygiene and sanitation, appropriate food consistency, and the use of locally available ingredients in preparing meals for young children.

During the discussion, participants raised questions on the proper use and dosage of Micronutrient Powder (MNP). The facilitators clarified that MNP is intended for children aged 6–23 months, following the recommended program guidelines. Participants were reminded to follow the prescribed instructions on the amount, frequency, and proper mixing of MNP with food, and to avoid adding it to hot food or liquids.

For the training culmination, participants conducted a return demonstration on complementary feeding, applying proper food preparation, hygiene, and age-appropriate meal practices.

To formally close the training, Municipal Health Officer Dr. Queen Jharon Ota emphasized that learning is a continuous process, as nutrition information and guidelines are regularly updated. She encouraged participants to apply their learnings and share them with mothers and caregivers in their communities.

The training strengthened the capacity of local nutrition and health workers to conduct ECCD-F1K learning sessions and promote proper nutrition practices. The team also conducted a courtesy call to Hon. Jean Chriscelene “Kzel” Alega-Floresta, Vice Mayor of San Francisco, Quezon, to strengthen coordination and support for local nutrition programs.

Written by:
NO II John Kentzee A. Solibaga, RND
NO III Theresa A. Rivas, RND, MPH
NPC Lourdes Bulante-Orongan, RND, MDM

National Nutrition Council (Official) Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project - Calabarzon Pnao Quezon Rural Health Unit- San Francisco, Quezon SFQ Nutrition Action Office

26/10/2026

𝗡𝗡𝗖 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗺 𝗖𝗶𝗿𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 1,000 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀

The National Nutrition Council (NNC), in collaboration with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), conducted a public consultation on the Draft Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) on the Supplementary Guidelines for the Integrated First 1,000 Days (F1KD) Services on October 20, 2026. The activity brought together representatives from national government agencies, local government units, development partners, civil society organizations, academe, and other stakeholders to gather inputs and recommendations for strengthening the implementation of integrated nutrition and health services during the critical first 1,000 days of life.

The consultation served as a venue to discuss key provisions of the draft JMC, including service integration, beneficiary identification and referral systems, convergence mechanisms, monitoring and evaluation, and the roles and responsibilities of participating agencies and stakeholders. Participants provided valuable insights to ensure that the guidelines are evidence-based, responsive to local needs, and practical for implementation at all levels.

The activity reaffirmed the commitment of the government in advancing a coordinated and multisectoral approach to improving maternal and child nutrition outcomes. Inputs gathered during the consultation will be incorporated to refine the draft JMC, paving the way for a stronger policy framework that supports the delivery of comprehensive and integrated First 1,000 Days services nationwide.

This initiative underscores the shared commitment of NNC, EDCOM II, and partner agencies to promoting the health, nutrition, and development of Filipino mothers and children through responsive, evidence-informed, and collaborative interventions.

26/10/2026

𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗮 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼𝘀: 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧-𝗙𝗡𝗥𝗜 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘆

A plate of food goes beyond filling a child’s empty stomach; it fuels growth, supports health, and creates a brighter future where they can learn, dream, and thrive.

But when hunger persists, malnutrition can rob them of these opportunities.

Read the full article in the comment section.

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