The Iloilo Provincial Nutrition Council Technical Working Group (PNC-TWG) convened for its 4th quarter meeting on October 20, 2025 to assess the status of nutrition program implementation in the province.
The Provincial Health Office reported a decreasing trend in malnutrition in the province of Iloilo from 2021 until 2025. Rates of underweight, stunted, wasted, and overweight children aged 0-59 months have all reduced over the last five years.
Provincial Health Officer I and Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Wendel Marcelo attributed the notable reduction in malnutrition to the intensified implementation of nutrition-sensitive programs as well as the strong support of stakeholders.
The meeting also addressed gaps and challenges in the implementation of nutrition programs. One of the issues raised during the meeting is the low recording of data under the Operation Timbang (OPT) for 2025.
Operation Timbang (OPT) Plus is conducted annually to measure the weight and height of preschoolers. The council agreed to strengthen its monitoring system and encourage community participation to address the issue.
The meeting further tackled the crucial role of fortified food and iodized salt in combating micronutrient deficiencies.
The council sought for strong support from the local government units in the implementation of Republic Act 8172 or the ASIN Law and Republic Act 8976 or the Philippine Food Fortification Act of 2000. (Capitol News)
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