Nat’l Nutrition Council recognizes Caraga program implementers, advocates
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur --- The
National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga recognized various stakeholders with
exemplary performance in the implementation of nutrition programs, during
the Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony (RNAC), at the Hotel Oazis in
Butuan City on September 19.
Assistant Secretary and Executive Director Azucena M. Dayanghirang of NNC joined the nutrition program implementers and advocates during the said event. As they marched through the red carpet, their glittering white and gold attire caught the eyes of spectators, whose color [gold] also symbolized the meaningful celebration of the NNC's 50th anniversary this year.
Dr. NiΓ±o Archie Labordo, regional nutrition program coordinator of NNC-Caraga, acknowledged all the attending stakeholders.
"As we convened for this highly significant event, we are reminded of our unity in achieving our long-term goal towards a green and healthy life. Truly, there is no monopoly in achieving success in nutrition. Everyone plays a vital role in fulfilling our goals for a Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat," he said.
"Let us draw power in our diverse and connected power; work with accountability and integrity towards healthy and well-nourished Caraganons," he added.
Dr. Cesar Cassion, regional director of the Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga and chairperson of Regional Nutrition Committee (RNC) also gave his welcome address to the awardees and participants.
“We have to persevere through our continued efforts to end malnutrition in our region. There's still much to be done and together, we continue to build and experience a healthy Caraga. To our awardees, your dedication has set a benchmark for excellence in nutrition governance and service delivery," he said.
"You have not only achieved significant outcomes but also inspired others to follow your footsteps. May our success continue to uplift our region and drive further movements in the health and well-being of our people," he added.
Dr. Dayanghirang recognized all the participating sectors.
"This annual event is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the nutrition program implementers and advocates in pursuing good nutrition. We celebrate all the achievements of the local government units and partners in eradicating malnutrition in the country," she said.
She also stressed that overweight and obesity result from an imbalance of energy intake (diet) and energy expenditure (physical activity).
"Overweight and obesity should be stopped as these trigger other diseases," she added.
Among the recipients of the Green Banner Seal of Compliance Awards are the local government units in the province of Agusan del Sur.
The municipalities of Rosario, Sibagat, Talacogon, San Luis, San Francisco, Trento, La Paz, Sta. Josefa, Esperanza, and the province of Agusan del Sur received their awards.
Bayugan City was also hailed as the 2023 Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition [CROWN].
Meanwhile, as an active member of the Regional Nutrition Committee (RNC), the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga through Regional Head Venus Lim-Garcia received a plaque of recognition by the NNC for the significant involvement of the agency in various NNC Caraga's activities, initiatives, and programs.
Jennifer P. Gaitano, information officer III of PIA Caraga, also received a certificate of appreciation for her effort and role as one of the evaluators of the Monitoring and Evaluation of the Local Level Plan Implementation Protocol (MELLPI Pro), and a member of the Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET).
They were recognized for their significant contributions to the RNET, who facilitated the successful execution of the 2024 MELLPI Pro and the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023-2028.
The NNC also acknowledged the PIA Caraga for consistently providing communication support, especially on its efforts aimed at reaching the grassroots, while it also disseminates timely, accurate, and reliable information to the general public.
As the vice chairperson of the RNC, Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Regional Executive Director Arlan M. Mangelen, represented by Regional Technical Director for Operations Rebecca R. Atega, called on the different sectors to unite and continue its efforts and initiatives against malnutrition.
"It is a great honor to celebrate with you for your remarkable achievements - our local government units, nutrition focal persons, and dedicated stakeholders," she said.
"Your unwavering commitment to high quality nutrition has significantly contributed to our ongoing fight against malnutrition, fostering a healthier and more resilient community," she added.
The 2024 Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony organized by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga was a momentous celebration of achievements in combating malnutrition and promoting good nutrition in the region.
It highlighted the importance of unity, accountability, and continuous effort in addressing malnutrition. The recognition of outstanding local government units and individuals served as a testament to their dedication and success in improving the nutritional well-being of Caraganons. The event also reinforced the need to tackle issues like obesity to prevent further health complications. (KKG, PIA-Agusan del Sur)
