BCEC launches feeding program for Aeta children

BALANGA CITY — The Bataan Child Empowerment Council (BCEC) has launched last week a feeding program in two indigenous people tribes in the upland villages of Bangkal in Abucay town and Bayan-Bayanan, Orion town to get rid of malnutrition and health problems.

Vicky Garcia, chairperson of BCEC, said the council composed of civic and religious groups, provincial government chiefs and other non-government agencies will conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of the nutritional and health needs of some 60 Aeta children in the pre-school stage.

Garcia said the feeding program is being conducted from Monday to Friday to pre-schoolers whose ages range from three to seven years at the day care centers to ensure that nutritious food intake and proper hygiene are followed in the upland villages.

Garcia said school children in the two Aeta communities receive regular supply of vitamin supplements, medicine and school supplies.

Gov. Enrique "Tet" Garcia Jr. for his part, has expressed concerns when a report of the rising number of Aeta children with pulmonary diseases reached his office. He instructed the Provincial Health Office to conduct monthly dental and health missions in the indigenous people communities in Bataan. — Raffy Viray