Combined efforts needed to rid PH of malnutrition

In the Philippines alone, an estimated 3.6 million are stunted or short for their age and about 800,000 more malnourished children. (Shutterstock Photo)

MANILA — An independent children’s rights organization has underscored the need for the combined efforts of parents and government agencies that will implement the First 1,000 Days Law to completely eliminate malnutrition in the country.

According to Save the Children Philippines, swift and proper interventions by both parties are necessary to address the issue. The first 1000 days from conception, known as the “window of opportunity”, is a critical period to support a child’s rapid growth and development.

“School feeding is not sufficient and may be too late since the children’s mental development has been affected by malnutrition at an early age. Thus, proper nutrition should start even when the child is in the mother’s womb,” Save the Children Philippines chief executive Albert Muyot said.

In the Philippines alone, an estimated 3.6 million are stunted or short for their age and about 800,000 more malnourished children.

These children live in both urban and rural areas of the Philippines, including Metro Manila and conflict-affected provinces in Mindanao.

The law, to be called as “Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act”, was signed by President Rodrigo R.

Duterte on November 29, 2018. It seeks to ensure mothers are given proper nutrition and health care before, during and after giving birth.

The cities of Malabon and Navotas are the first local government units in the National Capital Region to pass an ordinance on First 1,000 Days.