Intensify feeding programs for undernourished kids, LGUs told

MANILA, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) have ben ordered to intensify supplementary feeding programs for undernourished children to prevent early childhood malnutrition, and physical and cognitive impairment.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) directed provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, barangay captains and local nutrition officers to accelerate the rollout of the supplementary feeding program  in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the directive is in line with Republic Act 11037, or the Masustansiyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, which mandates sustained state nutrition interventions to eradicate child hunger and stunting.

Targeting children aged two to five years enrolled in LGU-run child development centers, the program provides nutritious meals including fresh milk and milk-based products over a two-month period.

Beyond addressing dietary deficits, the initiative creates livelihood opportunities for small-scale dairy farmers and producers.

To ensure long-term health outcomes, the DILG ordered local health offices to regularly assess participating children including conducting routine health checks, deworming, vaccinations and micronutrient supplementation.