NNC 7 and Fraternal Eagles Launch Tutok Kainan in Central Visayas

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region VII, in partnership with the Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippine Eagles (FOE-PE), successfully launched the 2024 Tutok Kainan Dietary Supplementation Program (TK DSP) on November 12, 2024, at Sacred Heart Center, D. Jakosalem St., Cebu City. The event marked a significant step forward in the fight against childhood stunting in Central Visayas.

The TK DSP aims to prevent stunting, locally known as “pagka-potot,” among children aged 0-23 months by improving the quality and quantity of their food and nutrient intake, as well as promoting the utilization of Early Childhood Care and Development First 1000 Days (ECCD F1KD) services among nutritionally at-risk pregnant women and young children.

The launch brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including FOE-PE officials led by National President Mr. Ronald F. Delos Santos, Regional Nutrition Committee and NNC officials led by Chair and DOH CV CHD Regional Director Jaime S. Bernadas, RNPC Dr. Parolita A. Mission, local government leaders, representatives from LGUs, health and nutrition officers, program beneficiaries, and private sector representatives, including Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. President Mr. Jay Yap Yuvallos.

During the event, the significance of the TK DSP was emphasized, noting that since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has reached thousands of beneficiaries. In 2023, the program served a total of 7,245 pregnant women and 3,560 children aged 6-23 months. The 2024 implementation aims to expand its reach, with additional support from the FOE-PE funding over 200 more beneficiaries from Cebu province.

The event also served as a platform to discuss the roles and responsibilities of program implementers, ensuring effective execution and long-term sustainability of the initiative. Highlights included a memorandum of agreement signing with select mayors, including Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin N. Garcia, underscoring the shared commitment to enhancing nutritional outcomes. (MCN)