Bantay Asin Task Force inspects markets in Las Piñas City
The Las Piñas City - Bantay Asin Task Force (LPC - BATF) conducted its inspections of markets and stores in the city as a proactive measure to enforce Republic Act No. 8172 or the "Act Promoting Salt Iodization Nationwide," which aims to eradicate micronutrient malnutrition in the Philippines.
According to Mayor Imelda Aguilar, aside from checking for the presence and availability of iodized salt, the LP-BATF also inspected the use of fortified flour and Vitamin A/Iron-fortified cooking oil.
She said the additional checks aim to offer a more holistic approach in eliminating micronutrient deficiencies that could have long-term health implications for city residents.
The activity is part of a larger initiative called "Iodized Salt Palawigin Mga Tindahan Bisitahin," pertaining to a campaign that involves a series of random monitoring visits in various establishments in Las Piñas City to ensure the broader objectives of public health and nutrition are effectively met.
Aguilar said the city government reiterates its commitment to upholding public health standards by assuring the availability of essential, fortified food items and continues to be a frontrunner in the nationwide drive to end micronutrient malnutrition.
By actively monitoring the implementation of RA 8172, the city is setting a strong example for other local governments to follow in their public health initiatives.
The team that conducted the monitoring visit consisted of professionals from various city offices, including the Nutrition Office led by Reina Borlaza and Claribel Miranda; Antonio Antonio from City Sanitation Office; Nonel Jay Terez from Department of Interior and Local Government ( DILG) and Julie Estabillo from the City Agriculture Office.