Barangay Nutrition Scholars to Converge and Celebrate the Program’s 40 Years

Year 2018 marks the 40th year since the signing of PD 1569 which established the barangay nutrition scholar (BNS) Program. The law was promulgated to improve the implementation of barangay nutrition program through the deployment of at least one BNS in every barangay.

To celebrate this milestone, the National Nutrition Council Region VII together with the Federation of Barangay Nutrition Scholars’ Associations of Region VII, Inc. (FeBaNuSA 7, Inc.) will be holding the 14th Regional Conference of Barangay Nutrition Scholars on 07-08 November 2018 at the Holy Name University Barder Center and Facilities, Tagbilaran City.

Now on its 14th year, the conference is anchored on the theme “BNS, Bayani ng Nutrisyon, Noon, Ngayon at Bukas!”. The conference aims to mobilize the BNSs in the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2017-2022 in their respective barangays. Specifically, it aims to discuss roles of BNS in the PPAN 2017-2022 and how to align the Barangay Nutrition Action Plan (BNAP) with the PPAN and Regional Plan of Action for Nutrition (RPAN), demonstrate how to assess acute malnutrition and identify actions points in referring acute malnutrition cases, as well as clarify issues and queries on the various aspects of the BNS program. The conference also serves as a venue to discuss organizational concerns and updates regarding the National and Regional BNS Federation.

Exciting and relevant discussions were prepared to make BNSs more equipped in accomplishing their roles. Assistant Secretary of Health and NNC Executive Director Maria-Bernardita T. Flores was invited to attend this significant milestone in the lives of BNSs. Hon. Edgardo M. Chatto of Bohol and Hon. John Geesnell L. Yap II of Tagbilaran City will also grace the event and are slotted to inspire and speak of their support to the BNSs. About 1,500 front-line nutrition workers are expected to attend this gathering.

Part of the program also is the showcasing of the talent of our BNSs as they present their respective numbers during the BNS Talent Showdown. The said showdown will be participated by all four provincial BNS Associations in the region.

The NNC 7 and FeBaNuSA 7, Inc. invites all the BNSs in Central Visayas to actively participate in this year’s conference. Big prizes and awards await the lucky participants! Be part and enjoy the sessions and camaraderie of other nutrition workers united to end malnutrition in the region! For more details visit here. (HVA)