Empowering the Grassroots to Up Scale the F1K
The Early Childhood Care and Development in the First 1000 Days (ECCD F1K) Program has reached notable milestones as it marks its third year of implementation in the Province of Cebu. The program which aims to provide a multi sectoral approach in addressing health and nutrition problems particularly on stunting and wasting incidences in the province has slowly made a dent in the lives of Cebuanos.
With nutrition and health workers already capacitated to bring out positive health behaviors in their communities, the question lies on how well can the program be sustained and scaled up in achieving its goals and objectives.
One of the program’s innovative activities is the conduct of Nutrition Education classes using the Idol Ko si Nanay Module where mothers are taught basic Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices using participatory demonstration approach.
Basic health and nutrition services are also intensified to bring services closer to the beneficiaries. Furthermore, families are provided with home and community food production supplies and materials to improve food security in the household.
The recent passing of Republic Act 11148 otherwise known as “Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag Nanay Act” is a huge leap in implementing the First 1000 Days program in the Philippines. But with all these activities happening on the ground, the sustainability of the program now relies greatly on the beneficiaries of the program.
While change is inevitable, the quest towards achieving a healthier society remains as top priority of the country. Empowering families and communities in adapting positive health behaviors is significant to make the program work. (ROP)
