BAGUIO CITY – Baguio nutrition workers and counterparts from Ifugao, Quezon, Laguna and Mandaluyong; numbering to more than 600 were called to renewed enthusiasm for their advocacies in a two-day nutrition summit in the city last week.
USAID program Luzon health representative and speaker Cecille Agpawa emphasized on community nutrition goals achievement with goals on better health condition for everyone. From the 2011-2016 goals, there are now 12 thrusts for 2017-2022, she said, needing to lessen nutritional performance gaps along the way.
A call for response to hunger, malnutrition, undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, obesity needs action from Filipinos and its leadership, Agpawa said. It entails “malasakit” (protective concern), “pagbabago” (change), “kaunlaran” (development), and a commitment to the global community, she added.
Said goals are anchored on the global target for maternal/infant and young child development, the 2030 sustainable development goals, and the international conference on nutrition.
With fluctuating statistical data on all nutritional aspects presented, Agpawa focused on the barangay nutrition workers as responsible frontliners to act on observed deficiencies; and the Filipino, families, the community and the government and other sectors’ duty assist others to enjoy good health. “We work together with passion for our (health and nutrition) vocation, as we could not accomplish things alone,” she said. We remain a passionate team for our work and clients, she ended.
The representatives were similarly inspired by Mayor Mauricio Domogan in a courtesy call before a city tour to barangay nutrition sites, accompanied by City Nutritionist Angelita Sabado and nutrition workers.
Other speakers during the forum were Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Rita Papey, who focused on the theme of this year’s nutrition month talking points; “Healthy diet, gawing habit-For Life!”; Dr. Ramona Abat, for stress management; and Sangguniang Panlungsod’s officer Jonalyn Pagada, for workplace character.
Dr. Ferdinand Brawner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) spoke on sports and nutrition benefits and effect, with a sports exercise demonstration; and additional alternative and conventional health knowledge.
The theme for the gathering is “Healthy living and nutrition awareness to fight trending diseases.” /Julie G. Fianza
