Capitol to sponsor training of new BNS

CEBU, Philippines - The Capitol is set to sponsor the training of new barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) should there be new appointments next year.

Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale said that they are expecting that newly elected barangay captains would pick their own choice of BNS even the existing ones are already equipped with trainings.

Magpale said that she was asked by some BNS if they could stay even if the newly elected barangay officials would assume office starting on December.

“Wa man gyuy balaud sa ilang security of tenure,” she said.

The BNS are appointed by the barangay captains with the concurrence of the council members.

The BNS Program is a human resource development strategy of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition, which involves the recruitment, training, deployment and supervision of volunteer workers.

Presidential Decree No. 1569 mandated the deployment of one BNS in every barangay in the country to monitor the nutritional status of children and/or link communities with nutrition and related service providers. PD 1569 also mandated the NNC to administer the program in cooperation with local government units.

The training facilitates the acquisition of knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed for effective performance of the tasks of identifying the malnourished, monitoring the malnourished, and referring them to appropriate service providers.

The BNS collects and analyzes data on the barangay nutrition situation using the family and barangay profile forms.  He or she also formulates his or her action plan.

A BNS receives a modest monthly traveling allowance which amount varies depending on the financial capability of the LGUs. (FREEMAN)