By Rowena T. Cruz NNC-Region IV-A fetes top-performing LGUs, with Quezon Province leading the region in the implementation of the Philippine...
 |
| NNC-Region IV-A fetes top-performing LGUs, with Quezon Province leading the region in the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) programs. (Quezon Provincial Health Office) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - The highest marks for nutrition program excellence were handed out as the Region IV-A (CALABARZON), through the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region IV-A, officially feted its top-performing local government units (LGUs) and dedicated personnel during the highly anticipated 2025 CALABARZON Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony.
Held at the CALABARZON Regional Government Center, the event gathered hundreds of health officials and local leaders. The ceremony showcased the outstanding achievements of individuals and municipalities instrumental in scaling up nutrition programs across the region, with the proceedings guided by the year's national campaign: “Food at Nutrition Security, Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin!”
The awards conferred represented the culmination of the rigorous Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation (MELLPI). Through this process, LGUs are formally assessed across seven key management areas, including planning, coordination, and resource generation. Quezon Province secured the highest honor, receiving the prestigious Highest Ranking 3rd Year Green Banner Seal of Compliance Awardee, a testament to its sustained excellence in addressing malnutrition.
The Green Banner Seal constitutes a highly coveted award for LGUs that demonstrate exceptional performance in their local nutrition programs. Receiving the seal confirms their success in meeting set nutritional targets, which includes significantly reducing stunting and wasting among children. Governor Doktora Helen Tan accepted the award on behalf of the Provincial Local Government Unit.
“This award is not just for the Provincial Capitol, but for every dedicated health worker and family in Quezon Province who works tirelessly to ensure our communities are well-nourished and healthy,” Governor Tan stated in her acceptance speech. She highlighted that the province's success was rooted in its comprehensive First 1,000 Days Program, a core component that reinforces the objectives of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN).
The ceremony further acknowledged the exemplary contribution of Nutrition Action Officers and program coordinators in the faithful execution of the PPAN. Earning the top provincial spot was Joan Maricel Zeta-Decena, designated the Regional Outstanding Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (1st Place). Following her success, Graciella O. Ramos of Candelaria, Quezon, was recognized as the Regional Outstanding City/Municipal Nutrition Action Officer (1st Place), demonstrating Candelaria's strong administrative leadership. Marinela Zaporteza-Chong of Tayabas City was also recognized as a Finalist in the category.
Other key individual awards were distributed across the region. Kristine Nicole A. Estrella secured 2nd Place for Regional Outstanding District Nutrition Program Coordinator. Joyleta M. Bayani of Candelaria, Quezon, was recognized as a Finalist for Regional Outstanding City/Municipal Nutrition Program Coordinator. The dedication of grassroots workers was also recognized: Jearly A. Añonuevo (Mulanay, Quezon) and Annjessica S. Zarsadias (Tayabas City) were both named Finalists for Regional Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar, positions critical for direct family intervention and community monitoring.
In the LGU category, multiple municipalities were lauded for their unwavering commitment to nutrition security. Candelaria, Quezon, and Sariaya, Quezon, were both formally honored with the highly sought-after 3rd Year Green Banner Seal of Compliance, confirming three consecutive years of exemplary nutrition program implementation. Additionally, Real, Quezon, and Infanta, Quezon, were awarded the 2nd Year Green Banner Seal of Compliance, reflecting their strong dedication to the region's nutritional goals.
At the barangay level, Barangay Buenavista West, Candelaria, Quezon, secured 3rd Place for the Regional Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Committee, while Barangay Dapdap, Tayabas City, was recognized as a Finalist. These barangays were noted for their innovative approaches to local food production and feeding programs that directly support the 2025 theme, often including the establishment of community vegetable gardens and entrepreneurship training focused on value-added agricultural products.
The 2025 ceremony solidifies the collective commitment of CALABARZON's health workers and LGUs, establishing a high standard for public health management and community involvement, in line with the NNC's mandate to address national nutrition challenges. The recognized achievements are expected to serve as a benchmark for local governance across the country.
No comments