In a significant move to combat child malnutrition, the Children's First One Thousand Days Coalition (CFDC) officially launched its operations manual and training program on Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Manila Hotel.

It said that the initiative aimed to contribute to the government's ongoing efforts in addressing “malnutrition” during the crucial “first one thousand days of a child's life,” as mandated by Republic Act 11148, or the "Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Magnanay Act."

“With our battle cry for ‘brighter, stronger, taller’ Filipino children, let us unite to uplift the vulnerable and intensify nutrition efforts for a new generation of Filipinos," said CFCD’s National Project Chairman Jose “Joey” D. Lina. 

Moreover, the CFDC's operations manual serves as a “detailed guide” for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on how they can actively participate in the fight against malnutrition during the period from conception to a child's second birthday.

This comprehensive manual outlines precise interventions throughout the pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy stages with the ultimate goal of optimizing the health of both mothers and infants.

Meanwhile, key features of the manual, as stated by the organization, include the formation of a Thousand Days Committee (TDC) by NGOs, collaboration with Local Government Units (LGUs), and the establishment of a joint NGO and Barangay First One Thousand Days Nutrition Committee (NBJC).

It also added that the committees will work together to educate communities, identify pregnant and lactating mothers, and enroll them in the First One Thousand Days Nutrition Program.

The manual also emphasized the importance of comprehensive “dietary guidance” during pregnancy, promoting balanced diets rich in essential nutrients, and providing trimester-specific nutrition recommendations.

The CFDC underscored the need for ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and improvement, with a focus on breastfeeding support, optimal nutrition, and growth.

Regarding this, to ensure the success of the program, the CFDC encouraged collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH)-accredited health centers, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) for regular health checkups, monitoring, and data collection.

The Joint Committee, comprising the Barangay Chairman and NGO Project Chair, will oversee the program's progress, conduct regular meetings, and identify beneficiaries based on economic status.

Additionally, the Barangay Nutrition Scholar will monitor compliance and maintain records in the mother's and baby's books.

Moreover, it announced a collaboration with esteemed organizations such as Rotary International, Lions Clubs International, Kiwanis International, Junior Chamber International, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, The Fraternal Order of Eagles—Philippines Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Knights of Rizal, Save the Children Philippines, World Vision Philippines, the Philippine Foundation of the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, the Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Crusade Against Violence.

The CFDC envisions a healthier and more prosperous future for the nation, working hand in hand with various organizations and stakeholders to ensure that every Filipino child receives proper nutrition during their critical first 1,000 days of life.