Members of the Manila City Council led by Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto pose for a group picture after passing on third and final reading an ordinance that will address the problem of child nutrition. (Photo courtesy of the office of VM Nieto)
Manileños, let’s start being healthy early – VM Nieto
THE City Council of Manila, presided by Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto, passed on third and final reading a localized version of Republic Act 11037 otherwise known as Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, aimed at addressing the problem of malnutrition among children during the regular session last week.
The measure, to be known as Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Maynila Ordinance, would establish the Manila City Local Feeding Program in daycare centers and public schools, providing at least one fortified meal daily, for 120 days or more each year, to undernourished kids.
The program would be funded in part by the city’s Special Education Fund, and implemented by the Manila Department of Social Welfare, in coordination with the City Health Department and national government agencies, particularly the Department of Education (DepEd) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“Giving good nutrition to a child early in life is essential to his or her future health”, explained 4th District Councilor Louisito “Doc Louie” Chua, principal author of the Ordinance. “Most children eat just to satisfy their hunger, without proper regard to their food’s nutritional value”, added Chua, who is a medical doctor by profession.
The health measure received unanimous support from the Councilors present. Some even shared their fond memories of the feeding programs they benefited from as a child, as Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto recalled being served with nutribun and milk in grade school.
