Strengthening local nutrition governance to drive results

By Jay B. Laurino Local officials and stakeholders sign a pledge of commitment during the Nutrition Local Governance training, reinforcing t...

By Jay B. Laurino

Local officials and stakeholders sign a pledge of commitment during the Nutrition Local Governance training, reinforcing their support for sustained and results-driven nutrition programs in Quezon Province. (Quezon Provincial Health Office)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Efforts to combat malnutrition and improve public health outcomes in Quezon Province have been strengthened through intensified nutrition governance initiatives led by the Provincial Health Office–Provincial Nutrition Action Office (PHO–PNAO). The move underscores the provincial government’s commitment to integrating evidence-based and results-oriented approaches into local nutrition planning and implementation.

As part of this initiative, PHO–PNAO conducted a two-day Nutrition Local Governance: Nutrition Program Management for Local Chief Executives on March 18–19, 2026. The activity gathered Local Chief Executives, Municipal Nutrition Action Officers, Municipal Health Officers, and key stakeholders to strengthen coordination and leadership in nutrition programs.



In her address, Dr. Kristin Mae-Jean Villaseñor, Quezon Provincial Health Office Head, said, “Nutrition governance is not only about planning but about delivering results that improve lives at the community level. Through strengthened coordination and accountability, we can ensure that no child is left behind in achieving proper nutrition.”

Core sessions explored critical topics such as nutrition governance, the Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation (MELLPI), and the provisions of Republic Act 11148. Emphasis was placed on aligning local nutrition action plans with national policies while encouraging data-driven and responsive program design.

A key component of the activity was the Re-Entry Planning workshop, where participants developed concrete and localized action plans. This ensures that the insights gained from the training are translated into measurable interventions within their respective communities.

Villaseñor underscored the need for sustained collaboration and accountability among local leaders, emphasizing that translating knowledge into action is crucial to achieving long-term nutrition goals. She added that stronger coordination among local government units, health workers, and communities is key to ensuring programs reach those most in need.

“Effective nutrition programs require not only strong policies but consistent implementation and community involvement. When local leaders take ownership, we see real and lasting impact on the health and well-being of our people,” she added.

The initiative reflects the Provincial Government of Quezon’s continued commitment to advancing responsive and inclusive health programs. It also reinforces the importance of translating policy into action to achieve lasting and measurable improvements in community nutrition.