Tacloban Intensifies Nutrition Drive in Areas With Malnutrition Cases

Posted on July 14, 2026 at 4:48 am

TACLOBAN CITY — The Tacloban City Nutrition Office is continuing its efforts to address malnutrition after identifying communities where children and families need more nutrition support.

Among the areas being monitored by the office are Barangay 95 and Barangay San Isidro – Brgy 105, where nutrition workers have recorded concerns involving malnutrition cases.

Tacloban City, the center of government and commerce in Eastern Visayas, has more than 250,000 residents and is made up of 138 barangays. With many families depending on local resources for their daily needs, the city continues to promote programs that encourage healthier food choices, especially among children.

City Nutrition Office Head Keena M. Mate said addressing malnutrition early is important because proper nutrition affects a child’s growth, learning, and overall health.

The office is carrying out several activities during Nutrition Month to help families understand the importance of preparing nutritious meals.

One of these is the Nutri-Skwela Feeding Program, which provides food assistance to children. The office is also preparing the Nutri-Henyo activity for Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS), who serve as nutrition advocates in their communities.

On July 21, BNS members will visit Barangay 42 to share simple and affordable ways of preparing healthy meals with mothers.

The city is also continuing its breastfeeding support program by encouraging malls and other establishments to provide areas where mothers can breastfeed their children comfortably while outside their homes.

Mate said the program helps mothers continue breastfeeding even when they are traveling, working, or doing errands.

Aside from these programs, the City Nutrition Office also held a food fair and nutrition showcase featuring healthy dishes and organic products from local farmers.

The Nutrition Month celebration started on July 3 with a fun walk attended by representatives from city government offices, private groups, and representatives from Tacloban’s 138 barangays. The activity gathered 304 participants.

Mate said solving malnutrition is not only the responsibility of the nutrition office but also requires the support of parents, communities, and local leaders.

She added that teaching families how to choose and prepare nutritious food remains one of the important steps in helping children grow healthier.

Photo courtesy: Tacloban City Nutrition Office