DOH: Follow ‘Pinggang Pinoy’ guide for a safe, healthy holiday season

BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) Cordillera urged the public to observe a safe and healthy Christmas season by following the “Pinggang Pinoy” guide, which encourages greater consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
National Nutrition Council nutrition officer Velanie Balajadia said during a press conference on Thursday that a person’s health reflects their daily habits.
She reminded the public to follow the nutrition guide not only during the holidays but every day.
Under Pinggang Pinoy, three-fourths of the plate should consist of fruits and vegetables.
“Mix meat with lots of vegetables. If several types of meat are served, choose just one,” she said.
Balajadia also encouraged the use of smaller plates to avoid being tempted to get too much food.
She added adults should aim for 100 to 300 minutes of exercise per week, noting that walking remains the simplest and most affordable activity.
DOH-Cordillera Administrative Region Health Education and Promotion Officer III Jef Tamondong said in the same briefing that “Christmas is fun when we are healthy,” as she promoted the agency’s “Ligtas Christmas” campaign.
The initiative highlights safe celebrations amid the Filipino tradition of serving abundant holiday food and traveling to reunite with family.
Tamondong said the campaign focuses on balanced meals, regular exercise, healthy food choices during gatherings, safe travel, observance of road safety protocols, and avoiding fireworks and pyrotechnics.
She underscored the importance of preventing avoidable illnesses and injuries, reminding travelers to check their BLOW BAGSET—battery, lights, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, self, engine, and tires.
“We can celebrate Christmas without using dangerous items,” she added.**Liza Agoot