MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Bangsamoro Parliament’s Rules Committee held simultaneous public consultations in Cotabato City, Marawi City, and Zamboanga City on January 14, to discuss measures to address malnutrition and manage population in the region.
Parliament Bill No. 55, or the Bangsamoro Nutrition Act of 2022, seeks to address malnutrition by establishing the Bangsamoro Nutrition Council (BNC), which will implement nutrition programs across the region, focusing on vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
During the discussions, Member of the Parliament Randolph Parcasio emphasized the need for comprehensive nutrition programs, with support from the National Nutrition Council (NNC) for the bill’s swift passage.
Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. highlighted the alarming statistics of malnutrition in Lanao del Sur, where nearly 27% of children under five are affected.
Dr. Alinader Minalang, the provincial health officer of Lanao del Sur, proposed integrating Islamic teachings into public health and nutrition campaigns to promote healthy eating practices across the region.
Minalang called for improved support for local governments to ensure the successful rollout of nutrition programs.
Participants called for better funding, monitoring, and public awareness to ensure the bill’s success.
Parliament Bill No. 110, or the Bangsamoro Commission on Population and Development Act, aims to create a regional body to manage population growth and its impact on development.
The bill seeks to improve access to reproductive health services, promote family planning, and address the region’s growing population.
Patricia Santos of the Commission on Population and Development presented a strategic plan to tackle population issues, while Deputy Speaker Laisa Alamia highlighted the bill’s importance in supporting the region’s long-term development.
Recommendations included setting up local population management offices and enhancing community-based programs to support responsible parenthood and family planning.
Both bills will help improve health, nutrition, and development in BARMM.
The recommendations from these consultations will be reviewed for further deliberation by the committee. (BTA Parliament/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
