Mayor Turabin-Hataman emphasized during the session that the Local Nutrition Action Plan (LNAP) is already aligned with the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN), with many LNAP programs already in progress. She highlighted that while these programs might appear to be generic, the alignment is beneficial because LNAP is tailored to local ground-level data, enabling a more effective response to specific community needs. She also expressed the city’s commitment to providing substantial funding for nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programs, making the city recognized in Region 9. She stated, ” We are positive masusundan natin ang PPAN sa Isabela.”

The discussion aimed to facilitate dialogue among local government units with successful experiences in localizing and investing in nutrition interventions within the framework of PPAN, with the goal of unveiling and disseminating the plan and garnering support for its implementation.

Another significant aspect of the event was the turnover of the PPAN 2023-2028 document, led by the Department of Health (DOH) Secretary and NNC Governing Board Chair, Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, to the Regional Nutrition Committee Chairs, Governors, and the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines Island Chair.

The launch was attended by approximately 300 guests, including local chief executives, regional Development Council Chairs, representatives from SUN Movement Networks, and local focal points. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by ML Esturco, OCM)