Cagayan de Oro City emerged as the recipient of the prestigious Nutrition Honor Award, standing out as the sole local government unit (LGU) to clinch this accolade during the 2023 National Nutrition Awarding Ceremony held at the Manila Hotel on Monday, Feb. 12.
The National Nutrition Council's (NNC) annual ceremony recognizes LGUs demonstrating exceptional commitment and performance in nutrition initiatives.
It highlighted that Cagayan de Oro City's relentless dedication to nutrition program management, stakeholder mobilization, and collaborative efforts has made a significant impact on the well-being of its residents, earning the city the coveted Nutrition Honor Award for its achievements spanning from 2016 to 2022.
Along with this recognition comes a cash prize of P1 million and a trophy, highlighting the city's outstanding contributions to public health.
Joining Cagayan de Oro City in the spotlight were nine LGUs bestowed with the Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (CROWN) award, having consistently met evaluation criteria for three consecutive years.
These outstanding LGUs include Urdaneta City, Pangasinan; Diffun, Quirino; Guiguinto, Bulacan; Tayabas City, Quezon; Muntinlupa City; Baybay City, Leyte; Sumilao, Bukidnon; Davao del Norte Province; and Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.
NNC noted that each of these LGUs showcased commendable governance, substantial investments in nutrition and human resources, comprehensive action plans, and consistent delivery of quality nutrition services.
Among the noteworthy initiatives recognized were Cagayan de Oro City's "Health and Nutrition for Golden Years" program targeting seniors, Sumilao's establishment of a "Nutrition Code" prioritizing interventions across all age groups, and Muntinlupa City's innovative approaches to combat overweight and obesity.
Moreover, individual efforts were celebrated as well, with outstanding local nutrition focal points being acknowledged for their invaluable contributions.
NNC revealed that notable awardees include Sherill Faith P. Española from Cagayan de Oro City, Mayflor P. Espiritu from Davao del Norte Province, Dr. Reyveen John B. Geli from Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, Dr. Anna Maria Teresa S. De Guzman from Pangasinan Province, and Alicia C. Tanabe from Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
It highlighted that the National Nutrition Awarding Ceremony serves as a platform to honor the dedication and excellence exhibited by LGUs and local nutrition focal points in advancing the country's nutrition agenda.
Coordinated by the NNC, this event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting public health and well-being at the grassroots level.