Emphasizing that access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food is a fundamental right, the Provincial Government of Bulacan, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), officially launched its 51st Nutrition Month celebration at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium with this year’s theme: “Food at Nutrition Security, Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin!”
To champion this vital advocacy, the PSWDO has curated a dynamic, month-long series of activities including widespread tarpaulin displays, daily nutrition-focused content on the PGB website, and engaging community celebrations across day care centers, schools, and various sectors.
A highlight of this year’s celebration is the continuation of the “Ngiti Mo, Sagot Namin” program which provides free harelip and cleft palate operations, running from July 1 to 23.
A highlight of this year’s celebration is the continuation of the “Ngiti Mo, Sagot Namin” program, now in its 21st year, which provides free harelip and cleft palate operations, running from July 1 to 23.
The weekly “Nutrition on Air” radio program will broadcast live on July 3, 10, 17, and 24 via Radyo Kapitolyo, bringing crucial health information directly to homes.
The festivities continue on July 24 with the “Mutya ng Buntis” pageant and the province’s participation in National Disability Rights Week.
Culinary skills will be showcased in the “Bahay Kubo Cooking Contest” on July 29, leading up to the Culminating Program on July 31, which will honor outstanding contributions to promoting nutrition throughout Bulacan.
During the kickoff ceremony, PSWDO Head Rowena Joson-Tiongson underscored the theme’s urgency, especially given the ongoing impacts of inflation and food insecurity on vulnerable communities.
Joson-Tiongson called upon Governor Daniel Fernando, the Vice Governor Alexis Castro, and Board Members present at the flag ceremony to lend their full support to these initiatives, working collectively to build a healthier province.
“Sa sapat na pagkain, ito ay kailangan hindi kagustuhan lamang.”
“Tandaan po natin, sa sapat na pagkain, ito ay kailangan hindi kagustuhan lamang. Ang kalusugan ay puhunan po natin sa kaunlaran. Ang pagkakaroon ng masusutansyang kinabukasan ay magsisimula ngayon sa pagkilos po nating lahat,” she stated.
In solidarity with the celebration, Fernando urged all Bulakenyos, particularly public servants and employees, to make their health a priority.
“Tayong mga lingkod bayan, alagaan natin ang ating sarili, ang ating kalusugan. Although talagang mahirap magtrabaho at yung ating mga trabaho ay hindi lamang para sa pamilya at inyong sarili kundi para din sa ating kapwa mga Bulakenyo,” Fernando stressed.
