Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Philippines | March 5, 2026- The Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to child health as the Norala District Hospital (NDH) intensifies the implementation of the Philippine Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (PIMAM) program.
Recently, the hospital’s PIMAM Committee conducted an upskilling session for emergency room physicians, nurses, and attendants on the proper use of the Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) Screening Tool , a crucial step in ensuring early detection, timely referral, and standardized treatment of malnutrition cases, especially among children aged 0 to 59 months.
The positive impact of these strengthened protocols was evident in the recovery of a young patient who had been confined for nearly two months due to Severe Acute Malnutrition.
The child, discharged on Monday, March 2, initially faced persistent weight loss and poor appetite despite repeated interventions.
Through focused therapeutic feeding, close monitoring, and coordinated care, the patient gradually regained weight and recovered.
Since April 6, 2025, NDH has recorded five SAM cases, all involving children under five years old , a reflection of the hospital’s active surveillance and screening efforts.
Dr. Mila Quinton, Chief of hospital at NDH emphasized the importance of sustained intervention.
“Early screening and consistent monitoring save lives , every child deserves a fighting chance, and we are committed to making that happen” she said.
Meanwhile, Rudy Jimenea, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer underscored the government’s continued support.
“With strong leadership and unified action, we ensure that no child is left behind in accessing proper nutrition and quality healthcare.” He said.
Through the proactive leadership of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, programs like PIMAM are being actively strengthened across district hospitals, reinforcing the province’s long-term goal of reducing malnutrition and safeguarding the health of its youngest constituents.
With improved systems, trained health personnel, and sustained government backing, South Cotabato moves forward with confidence , proving that dedicated public service and community collaboration can transform even the most challenging cases into stories of hope and recovery.
