Marawi City, July 07, 2025—The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, through the Provincial Health Office, in partnership with the Provincial Nutrition Council and the Ministry of Health—BARMM, officially kicked off the 51st Nutrition Month Ceremony earlier today at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol.
Themed “Food at Nutrition Security, Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin,” the ceremony intensified the provincial government’s commitment to providing nutritious and affordable food for Meranaw families.
In his welcome address, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Abdul Qahhar R. Barambangan highlighted the event as a reminder to our health workers’ responsibilities in upholding food and nutrition as a fundamental right.
Nutrition Focal Person, Dr. Alyssa Rohaida Mitmug, highlighted the need for cooperation in addressing the nutrition concerns, food insecurity in Lanao del Sur, and proper attention to the programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening the province’s capacity to provide adequate and nutritious food for all Meranaw families.
Integrated Provincial Health Office Chief of Staff, Dr. Nihaya Macasindil, expressed appreciation for the leadership of the participating offices in advancing nutrition programs. She emphasized nutrition improvement as a basic human right and a shared responsibility requiring action, compassion, and sustained investment at all levels of governance.
In lieu of Nutrition Month Talking Points, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Princess Elham underscored the vital role of government agencies, local government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, and communities in raising awareness on food and nutrition security that contributes to national development.
“Kapag masustansya ang pagkain, mas uunlad ang bansa,” said Dr. Sacar.
Dr. Karima H. Usop of the Fellow of the Philippine Physicians (FPCP) also pinpointed that nutrition is the foundation of health and a key tool in preventing diseases. She further advised avoiding processed fast foods and encouraged an anti-inflammatory diet that is rich in vitamins and essential fats.
With regard to strengthening food security in the province, Ms. Hamida Usman of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) discussed their office’s programs under Mozhor so Kawiyagan sa Ranao (MKRA), which aim to improve food supply, support farmers, and build resilience.
In her message of support and commitment, Ms. Maya Rani Devero of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) mentioned the accomplishments of the UNICEF project over the past two years, particularly in advancing its sustainable initiatives. As a result, the number of LGUs achieving the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance increases from 11 to 15.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of a pledge and commitment and the distribution of commodities to the thirty-nine (39) municipal health officers representing the various Rural Health Units (RHUs) across Lanao del Sur.
