Feeding programs gain backing for children, vulnerable sectors

By Nimfa L. Estrellado The social welfare committee endorses a proposal to provide regular nutritional support to children and other at-risk...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

The social welfare committee endorses a proposal to provide regular nutritional support to children and other at-risk groups. (Sangguniang Panlungsod-Lucena City)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Efforts to strengthen nutrition support for children and vulnerable groups gained momentum after a Sangguniang Panlungsod social welfare panel backed a proposed feeding initiative. The move signals stronger local support for expanding nutrition programs, including the Supplementary Feeding Program and Milk Feeding Program aimed at addressing malnutrition and improving public health outcomes.

During deliberations on March 16, the Committee on Social Welfare, PWDs, Senior Citizens, Women and the Family, chaired by Councilor Elizabeth Sio, expressed full support for the proposal. The measure seeks to make regular feeding activities a permanent program for preschool and school-age children who are identified as undernourished or at risk.



Sio emphasized the need for strong coordination among city departments to ensure efficient use of resources and effective delivery of services. She said working together is key to making sure the programs reach the people who need them most and improve community health.

“Buong suporta ang ibinibigay ng ating komite sa panukalang ito dahil mahalaga ang sapat na nutrisyon lalo na sa mga bata at mga sektor na higit na nangangailangan. Sa pamamagitan ng sama-samang pagkilos ng iba’t ibang tanggapan, masisiguro natin ang maayos at epektibong pagpapatupad ng programang ito.”

She also underscored the urgency of reinforcing nutrition programs, noting that early intervention remains critical in preventing long-term health problems among children and other vulnerable sectors. According to her, the proposed feeding initiatives aim to provide consistent and targeted nutritional support to underserved communities.

“Napakahalaga po na masigurong may sapat na nutrisyon ang ating mga kabataan at mga sektor na nangangailangan upang maiwasan ang mas malalang suliranin sa kalusugan. Sa pamamagitan ng mga programang ito, mabibigyan natin sila ng mas maayos na pagkakataon para sa mas malusog na kinabukasan.”

The programs are expected to be carried out by the City Social Welfare and Development Office in coordination with the City Health Office. Discussions are focused on funding, beneficiary identification, and safeguards to ensure transparency and efficiency as the proposal moves toward council approval.

If carried through, officials said the initiative could mean not just fuller plates, but healthier starts for children whose futures often depend on the nutrition they receive today. It also reflects a broader commitment to protecting the well-being of vulnerable sectors through sustained and inclusive public health programs.