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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Church leader alarmed by rising cases of malnourished Filipino children

Church leader alarmed by rising cases of malnourished Filipino children

Published Mar 2, 2023 10:00 am
Fr. Anton Pascual (MB FILE PHOTO)

Caritas Manila executive director and Radio Veritas president Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual has expressed alarm over the rising cases of malnourished Filipino children.

Fr. Pascual called on the faithful to help particularly families who are not able to eat regularly and to do more charity work as the Church observes the Lenten season. The Church leader made the statement during the recent launching of the Scholars of Sustenance where he was guest of honor.

“Thirty percent of Filipino children 5 years old and below were found to be malnourished. The problem of hunger and malnutrition need to be addressed by concerned agencies. Caritas Manila is here to help the government as well as corporate foundations. We can all join hands to help address the problem,” Fr. Pascual said as he called on the public to avoid wasting food as well.

“The season of Lent is a time to do more charity work. When we fast or abstain, we are able to help the hungry. Almsgiving is a good way to start our journey back to God. Our donations to the Church will help provide funds to help feed the poor and malnourished children,” the priest stressed.

Fr. Pascual, likewise, reminded the faithful not to waste food.

“Let us remember Pope Francis’ reminder against the throw away culture. Pope Francis said that we should never waste food because so many people around the world are dying of hunger. Hunger and malnutrition must not exist in a civilized world and in a Christian country like the Philippines. That is why, we all need to do our share to help,” he said.

Data from the DOST- Food and Nutrition Research Institute showed around 1,717 metric tons of food go to waste in the country every day as more than three million Filipinos suffer from hunger and are able to eat only once a day.

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