The forum centered on the successful implementation of DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS, DOH Nutrition Programs and current nutrition situation in the region, which Engr. Raymond Libarra, Keren Faye Gaya, and Mark Angelo Lorenzo talked through.
The event also launched the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP), a convergence project of DSWD and DOH, as the KALAHI-CIDSS’ new funding modality. It focuses on improving the health and nutrition situation of the communities through the following project components: strengthened Nutrition Delivery and Primary Health Services, Community-based Nutrition Service Delivery and Multisectoral Nutrition Convergence, and Institutional Strengthening, Monitoring, and Evaluation.
Manuel M. Ocana Jr. and Ana Epefania Q. Escober discussed the PMNP project implementation arrangements on the above-mentioned components, including inputs and interventions.
According to Ocana, anti-poverty projects should gear away from physical infrastructures like buildings and road constructions. They should include nutrition-specific projects for pregnant and lactating women, children under five years old, especially those below three years old, and women of reproductive age.
“You are going to be part of the history who looks at the convergent approach to deliver health, nutrition, and social welfare and services,” Escober said to the municipalities signing the KALAHI-CIDSS PMNP Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). She pointed out that PMNP is a paradigm shift from a vertical mindset and a proven anti-poverty program in other developing countries.
On the other hand, the DSWD MIMAROPA KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator, Atty. Aldrin F. Bandal and Legal Assistant Aldin Emil M. De Leon discussed the salient points of the said MOA.
World Bank National Consultant Dr. Cecilia Cristina S. Acuin and Romblon Provincial Governor Hon. Jose Riano, through his representative, also expressed their support for the partnership in KALAHI-CIDSS PMNP.
The parties involved in the ceremonial signing of tripartite MOA are DOH Center for Health Development MIMAROPA, represented by Regional Director Dr. Mario S. Baquilo, CESO IV with the Assistant Regional Director Vilma Diez, DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA represented by Regional Director Leonardo C. Reynoso, CESO III with Assistant Regional Director for Operations Sheila S. Tapia, and 14 Local Government Units (LGUs) from Occidental Mindoro and Romblon, represented by the Municipal Mayors and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers.
“This project pertains to multi-sectoral convergence at the community level focusing on nutrition-related efforts to address stunting among children and hopefully, this would help improve the nutrition situation in the region,” Dir. Reynoso said.
