‘Politics won’t hinder anti-undernutrition proj’ – NNC

By Ernie Delgado

The head of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) in Bicol expressed optimism Monday that politics will not hinder the implementation of a multi-sectoral project aimed at combating undernutrition and stunting in the region.

NNC Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Arlene Reario said she hopes local government officials will remain focused on implementing the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) to reduce stunting, despite the upcoming elections on May 12.

Stunting, a condition caused by poor nutrition, infections, and lack of psychosocial stimulation, impairs children’s growth. In 2019, data showed that Bicol’s stunting rate exceeded 40% among children under five.

“Of course, we want to ensure that the nutrition project continues in all areas, even with the busy election activities starting in March,” Reario said in a mix of English and Filipino.

Funded by a ₱10-billion loan from the World Bank, the PMNP is being implemented by the Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, in collaboration with local government units whose leaders are currently occupied with re-election campaigns.

“PMNP is crucial because, once fully implemented, it will significantly reduce malnutrition in Bicol. More than half of the region’s municipalities are involved,” Reario said during Monday’s Ugnayan sa Bicol radio program.

Several activities are scheduled this year, including during the election period.

Next month, “Operation Timbangan” will be launched, involving mass weighing and height measurement of children aged 0 to 59 months to assess malnutrition and food insecurity.

Additionally, multiple training sessions have been planned to equip PMNP implementers in Bicol, Reario said.

“We are fortunate that the World Bank has funded PMNP in 60 municipalities in Bicol,” she said.

In 2019, data showed that one in three Filipino children under five suffered from stunted growth. According to the World Health Organization, stunting is primarily an irreversible consequence of inadequate nutrition and repeated infections during a child’s first 1,000 days.

As a result, stunted children tend to perform poorly in school and earn lower wages as adults.

Reario also urged voters to elect leaders who support the nutrition program.

“I hope the election goes well and that we choose leaders who prioritize nutrition,” she said.