DSWD Bicol’s Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Presentacion and other local government agencies, launched an interactive celebration of Nutrition Month with the theme “Sa Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN): Sama-sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat,” involving 46 “nutritionally compromised children” aged 2-5 years enrolled in Child Development Centers and Supervised Neighborhood Play.

During the event, a ceremonial milk-drinking activity was conducted, followed by the distribution of nutribuns to the participating children. A nutritious set of meals was also provided for their lunch, sourced locally and equivalent to 1/3 of the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intake as part of the SFP’s provisions.

In addition to the meals, DSWD Bicol distributed Php 45,000 worth of Health and Nutrition Information Materials, Php 35,000 worth of educational supplies, and Php 12,500 worth of hygiene kits to all beneficiary children.

All participating children and parents enjoyed the games and competitions organized by DSWD FO5 and the LGU, where food packs containing milk, biscuits, fruits, and vegetables were given as prizes.

SFP personnel also distributed 500 vegetable seeds to parents and guardians from the Department of Agriculture Bicol after an Urban Gardening Lecture conducted by the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO).

In a message delivered by Ms. Diorelli Santiago, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator of the National Nutrition Council, she emphasized the importance of collaboration among national agencies and the significant role played by LGUs in reducing all forms of malnutrition across all life stages.

Every year, DSWD participates in the nationwide advocacy and campaign on health and nutrition. Nutrition Month is celebrated by the Department in a selected municipality to intensify advocacy for the importance of nutrition and to promote evidence-based and innovative solutions to enhance resilience and improve nutrition outcomes from the barangay level to the national level. Furthermore, through this activity, DSWD supports PPAN 2023–2028. #