CEBU, Philippines — The National Nutrition Council-7 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles-Philippine Eagles launched the Tutok Kainan Dietary Supplementation Program (TK DSP) in Central Visayas on November 12, 2024.
The TK DSP aims to prevent stunting among children aged 0-23 months by enhancing the quality and quantity of food and nutrient intake. It also focuses on utilizing Early Childhood Care and Development First 1000 Days (ECCD F1KD) services for nutritionally at-risk pregnant women and children aged 6-23 months in the target areas.
This program operationalizes Republic Act No. 11148, also known as the Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act, which institutionalizes nutrition interventions during the first 1,000 days of life.
FOE-PE, a non-government organization founded in 1979 with a guiding principle of humanitarian service, signed a memorandum of agreement with NNC-7 to support the program. FOE-PE will provide funding for the aspects of the program not covered by the government budget.
Initially launched as a COVID-19 nutrition response, the TK DSP, implemented by the national government through the NNC in partnership with local government units (LGUs), has so far served 7,245 pregnant women and 3,560 children aged 6-23 months across the region. In 2024, the program is expected to reach an additional 409 nutritionally at-risk pregnant women in Cebu and Negros Oriental.
With additional financial support from FOE-PE, the program plans to expand to other provinces in Central Visayas, reaching 200 more beneficiaries from Cebu province.
The launch event anticipates the attendance of up to 100 participants, including FOE-PE officials, Regional Nutrition Committee members, NNC officials, local government leaders, health and nutrition officers, program beneficiaries, and representatives from the private and business sectors. The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. President, Mr. Jay Yap Yuvallos, will be present at the helm.
The regional launch of the TK DSP aims to gather key stakeholders responsible for the program's funding and implementation at the provincial, municipal, and barangay levels. Specifically, the launches intend to:
Increase awareness of the nutrition challenges within the community and highlight the critical importance of proper nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life.
Provide an overview of the Tutok Kainan program, outlining its goals, strategies, and anticipated outcomes.
Define the roles and responsibilities of each program implementer to ensure effective execution and long-term sustainability of the initiative.
Enhance collaboration among LGUs and beneficiaries to encourage active participation and strong commitment to the program.
According to a statement from NNC-7, the launch will serve not only as an advocacy platform but also symbolize the beginning of strengthened collaboration between the NNC, the business community, and partner LGUs, highlighting their shared commitment to improving the nutritional outcomes of their constituents. — /LPM (FREEMAN)