TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The City Health Services Office (CHSO) gathered the 94 barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) for the crafting of the Barangay Nutrition Scholar Action Plan (BNSAP) for 2025-2027.
This plan outlines nutrition targets, programs and projects, work plans, budget requirements, and monitoring and evaluation schemes to address malnutrition issues in the barangay over the next three years.
The plan highlights the first indicator on nutrition-specific programs which include the following sub indicators: infant and young child feeding, integrated management of acute malnutrition, dietary supplementation program, nutrition promotion program for behavior change, micronutrient supplementation program, and mandatory food fortification.
For the second indicator of nutrition-sensitive programs, this involves sustainable livelihood program and development; adolescent health and nutrition development; programs on water, sanitation and hygiene; reproductive health and responsible parenthood; and home and community production.
The BNS outlined the objective, baseline, target number for the three-year period and location for each sub indicator when doing their respective plan.
Basil Baluyan, representing City vice Mayor Dick Bal-o emphasized the role of a nutrition scholar in a barangay in implementing the BNSAP and improving nutrition in the community.
According to him, they are responsible for discharging the minimum functions required of them, such as providing nutrition information and addressing issues related to BNSAP implementation, thus their job is important in the community.
Napoleon Ayang-ang, speaking on behalf of City Mayor Darwin Estrañero, recognizes the significant role of the BNS as mobilizers in the community.
He also emphasized that there have been big improvements in the nutrition status of the residents because of the dedication and commitment of the BNS in monitoring their nutrition, particularly that of the children.
Joy Alunday, CHSO’s Nurse IV, facilitated the exercise. The aforementioned plan has been completed by the participants, and the same will be consolidated in the barangays. By Darwin S. Serion
