ILOILO CITY (PIA) – The Iloilo provincial government is set to increase the allowance of the 1,800 Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) in Iloilo to further boost the nutrition efforts in the community and to attain the goal of “zero malnutrition” in the province.
The hike in allowance from P4,000 to P4,500 was announced by Provincial Administrator Raul Bañas, who represented Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., during the 2nd BNS Convention on Aug 1 to 2 at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel.
“The additional P500 has been included in Supplemental Budget Number 1 and has been signed off by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. yesterday and it will be integrated with your current allowance,” Bañas said, noting that it would take effect in December 2024.
Bañas added that the provincial government eyes to incorporate another P500 increase in the Annual Investment Plan (AIP), citing that it is their way to show recognition for the efforts of the BNS in implementing various programs and initiatives.
Meanwhile, during the program, PHO head Dr. Maria Socorro-Quiñon thanked the BNS for their commitment in championing nutrition and health in the community, highlighting their roles in the implementation of nutrition programs guided by the new cycle of PPAN 2023-2028.
“Your role is pivotal in driving the success of our nutrition programs. You are the frontliners in our fight against malnutrition, and your actions directly impact the lives of those you serve,” Quiñon said in her message.
“This convention is not just a gathering as it is a beacon of hope for a healthier future for our children and a testament of collective action,” she added.
Department of Health (DOH)-6 director Dr. Adriano Suba-an also extended his support to the BNS and the PHO as he stressed the importance of nutrition for disease prevention, for physical development, and cognitive ability of individuals, which would lead to a more progressive country.
Assistant secretary and National Nutrition Council (NNC) executive director Azucena M. Dayanghirang, who served as keynote speaker, also acknowledged the innovations made by the PHO and the effort of the BNS in checking the nutrition status in the province; and stressed the need for collaboration among different stakeholders to combat the malnutrition issues in the country. (AAL-JNH/PIA Iloilo)
