BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The National Nutrition Council (NNC)-Cordillera pushes for unified actions in addressing malnutrition in the region.
Nutrition Officer III Velanie Balajadia of NNC-Cordillera explained how each plays a role in improving the nutrition status in the region during the Usapang PIA on August 7, 2025.
Balajadia shared that while line agencies continue to provide technical assistance, the local government units should also take active participation in the implementation of various programs and activities related to nutrition.
“Sa ating mga LGUs naman, since gagawa tayo ng three year action plan,sana ay iintegrate natin ’yung mga different nutrition programs. Let us ensure na this will be integrated din sa ating other local development plan, and that it will be funded.
And of course, hindi lang siya magstay as plan, maimplement din sana siya” she said.
She appealed to the community including the youth to pitch in by improving their lifestyle, and to be more informed of the efforts of the government.
“Marami din pong activities ang ating mga LGUs, baka hindi lang kayo aware na may nutrition services especially sa ating mga vulnerable groups like pregnant, lactating mothers. Meron din tayong mga barangay nutrition scholars, meron tayong mga services na pwedeng iavail doon sa ating mga clinics or RHUs, so punta po sila doon and avail yung mga counseling and check-ups kasi nakakatulong din yan overall sa interventions ng first 1,000 days”Balajadia said.
“Sa ating mga young or teens din diyan, reach out or go to our respective clinics, magpacheck-up din tayo, avail services or join nutrition classes or webinars,” she added.
These actions will help curb the prevalence of malnutrition among 0-59 months children in the different provinces.
As of 2024, the region logged a 2.47 percent prevalence for underweight, 0.69 for wasting, 5.91 for stunting, and 1.89 for overweight and obesity.
While the region sees a declining rate for underweight, wasting and stunting, the region is on the lookout for the increasing rate for overweight and obesity. **CVBT-PIA CAR
