KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Provincial Government of South Cotabato is strengthening its campaign against malnutrition and stunting among children while expanding nutrition programs for senior citizens as part of its commitment to improving public health and promoting the well-being of communities across the province.
According to Nutrition Officer II Noeleen P. Dumagdag, proper nutrition plays a vital role in ensuring the healthy growth and development of children and senior citizens.
“Importante gid nga masiguro nga ang tagsa ka bata kag senior citizens makabaton sang nagakaigo nga nutrisyon para sa ila pisikal nga ikaayong lawas kag kabug-usan nga pag-uswag. Paagi sa ginpabaskog nga mga interbensyon sa nutrisyon kag aktibo nga partisipasyon sang mga komunidad, nagalaum kami nga mas mapa-uswag pa ang nutritional status sang mga Kabataan kag may edad na sa bug-os nga probinsya” Dumagdag said.
Aside from addressing child malnutrition, the Provincial Government is also expanding its nutrition services for senior citizens, recognizing that older adults require proper nutrition to maintain good health, prevent illnesses, and improve their quality of life.
Under the enhanced program, senior citizens will benefit from regular nutrition assessments, the provision of nutritious food supplements, and educational seminars focusing on healthy diets, proper meal planning, disease prevention, and overall wellness.
Meanwhile, Angela Frugalidad, Community Affairs Chief, said South Cotabato allocated funds for three supplementary feeding among children under five years old, malnourished children and pregnant women.
“The intensified campaign reflects the provincial government’s continuing efforts to address nutrition-related challenges affecting vulnerable sectors, particularly young children during their crucial years of growth and development,” Dumadag said.
However, the nutrition section of the Office Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer said all sectors like senior citizens are part of the information and education campaign of the office.
“Through a comprehensive approach that combines preventive healthcare, nutrition education, and community participation, local officials aim to significantly reduce the number of malnourished and stunted children and senior citizenz in South Cotabato,” Frugalidad said.
Local government units (LGUs), barangay health workers, municipal nutrition action officers, health professionals, educators, and partner agencies continue to work closely together to ensure that nutrition services reach families in every community, particularly those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
The strengthened nutrition initiatives form part of the priority programs of Governor Renaldo S. Tamayo Jr., who continues to advocate for accessible healthcare services and inclusive community development throughout South Cotabato.
“Investing in nutrition is investing in the future of the province,” Governor Tamayo emphasized.
He believes that healthy children are better prepared to succeed in school and become productive members of society, while healthy senior citizens can continue to contribute to their families and communities.
