In the face of persistent challenges, the ongoing development initiatives in Ormoc City encounter a formidable obstacle: the prevalent and severe malnutrition afflicting a significant portion of the population. The city grapples with a complex array of nutritional issues, including undernutrition, stunting, wasting, overweight/obesity, and low birth weight, particularly impacting the well-being of children and mothers.

The etiology of undernutrition is multifaceted, stemming from both immediate factors such as insufficient nutritional intake and illness, as well as underlying determinants like food poverty, suboptimal care and feeding practices, an unhealthy family environment, and inadequate health services. These proximate and distal factors are intertwined with broader concerns related to resource allocation, societal dynamics, and economic considerations. Remarkably, the challenges of undernutrition, overweight, and obesity share common origins, emphasizing the interconnected nature of these health issues.

In response to this pressing dilemma, the Ormoc City Government, acting through the dedicated efforts of the City Health Department’s (CHD) Nutrition Office (NO), guided by the National Nutrition Committee (NNC), has formulated targeted programs. These initiatives are designed to address the unique needs of individuals affected by malnutrition and to continually assess, monitor, and implement effective actions to combat this multifaceted problem.

The orchestrated efforts of the City Health Department, in alignment with the guidance provided by the National Nutrition Committee, underscore the city's commitment to confronting and ameliorating the nutritional challenges that impede the holistic development and well-being of its populace. Through strategic planning and collaborative measures, Ormoc City endeavors to create a sustainable and impactful response to the intricate interplay of factors contributing to both undernutrition and overnutrition.

Ongoing

OPERATION TIMBANG PLUS

In the pursuit of enhancing the nutritional well-being of our community's youngest members, the City Health Department regularly conducts "Operation Timbang Plus." This annual undertaking involves the systematic weighing and height measurement of all pre-schoolers aged 0-59 months or below five years old, serving as a critical tool to identify and locate children grappling with malnutrition. The scheduled implementation of this operation occurs every 1st quarter of the year.

Target Group: Children aged 0-59 months

Target Number: 26,056

Total Number Accomplished: 21,802

Percentage of Accomplishment: 83.7%

The paramount objective of Operation Timbang Plus is to comprehensively assess the nutritional status of our young population, enabling early detection and intervention for those identified as malnourished. By focusing on the targeted age group, this initiative addresses a crucial developmental stage where proper nutrition significantly influences physical and cognitive growth.

The diligent execution of this operation signifies our commitment to proactively address childhood malnutrition, a critical concern with lasting implications on the health and well-being of our community. The achieved percentage of 83.7% underscores the commendable progress made in reaching the predetermined target, but our dedication to the well-being of every child persists until no child is left unaccounted for in this vital health endeavor.

Operation Timbang Plus stands as a testament to our commitment to the health and future of our youngest citizens, reflecting the City Health Department's continuous efforts to create a foundation of wellness that ensures a thriving and resilient community.

·       Underweight

The condition of being underweight, as per the defined parameters, signifies a low weight-for-age status in a child. A child classified as underweight may exhibit characteristics of being stunted, wasted, or a combination of both.

In the year 2024, our meticulous assessment reveals that 819 children fall into the category of being underweight, with an additional 172 classified as severely underweight. This cumulative figure amounts to 991 children, constituting 4.5% of the population. This represents a noteworthy reduction from the corresponding figures in 2020, where 1,385 children, or 6.66%, were identified as underweight.

It is paramount to note that the World Health Organization's cut-off threshold for underweight prevalence stands at less than 5%, a benchmark that closely aligns with our accomplished rate of 5.1%. This signifies a commendable achievement in our ongoing efforts to combat childhood undernutrition.

NUMBER OF UNDERWEIGHT AND SEVERELY UNDERWEIGHT CHILDREN IN ORMOC CITY FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS  (2019 - 2023)

Stunting

Stunting, characterized by a child's failure to achieve the appropriate height for their age, represents a critical concern rooted in inadequate nutrition during the crucial developmental stages of pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. Notably, stunting is irreversible by the age of two, underscoring the urgency of preventive interventions.

In the year 2024, our thorough analysis reveals that 1,600 children are classified as stunted, with an additional 527 identified as severely stunted. The cumulative figure stands at 2,127 children, constituting 9.8% of the population. This marks a significant decrease from the figures recorded in 2020, where 3,537 children, or 17.02%, were afflicted by stunting.

Our achievement rate of 9.8% reflects the success of concerted efforts aimed at addressing the multifaceted factors contributing to stunting. It is noteworthy that our accomplishment falls well below the World Health Organization's established cutoff of 20%, a testament to the effectiveness of strategic interventions and collaborative initiatives implemented by the City Health Department.

PERCENTAGE OF STUNTED AND SEVERLY STUNTED CHILDREN IN ORMOC CITY FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS 

(2020-2024)

Wasting

Wasting, characterized by a low weight-for-height, serves as a poignant indicator of recent and severe weight loss, persisting over varying durations. In the year 2024, our detailed assessment reveals that 417 children are classified as wasted, with an additional 201 identified as severely wasted. The cumulative sum of these figures encompasses 618 children, constituting 2.8% of the population.

This marks a substantial decrease from the corresponding figures in 2020, where 974 children, or 4.69%, were documented as experiencing wasting. This significant reduction underscores the efficacy of interventions geared towards addressing acute nutritional challenges within our community.

Noteworthy is our attainment rate of 2.8%, a figure that aligns favorably with the World Health Organization's benchmark, which stipulates that wasting prevalence should be below 5%. Our accomplishment, falling well below this threshold, highlights the success of concerted efforts undertaken by the City Health Department and affiliated entities.

THE FIRST 1,000 DAYS

To comprehend the pervasive issue of malnutrition in Ormoc City, a nuanced examination of the first one thousand days, spanning from pregnancy to the initial two years of a child's life, proves indispensable. Research consistently underscores that essential care and services, encompassing ante-natal care, birthing practices, postnatal care, breastfeeding, and proper feeding and nurturing of children aged 6-23 months, are pivotal in averting and alleviating stunting and various forms of malnutrition.

Despite earnest endeavours to enhance the nutritional well-being of the population, the city grapples with the persistent challenge of multiple malnutrition facets. To address this, Ormoc City Health Department has proactively embraced key interventions, with a prominent focus on the national government's groundbreaking First One Thousand Days Program. This initiative centers on crucial indicators related to the care and services vital for the optimal health and nutrition of pregnant and lactating mothers, as well as their newborns and infants during this critical period from gestation to the first twenty-four months of life.

A spectrum of interventions and health programs is made accessible for newborns and young children, encompassing exclusive breastfeeding, infant immunization, complementary feeding, micronutrient supplementation, and adherence to proper hygiene practices. Integral to the overarching nutrition program's advocacy is the dissemination of health education lectures across various barangays, emphasizing the significance of the First 1,000 Days, Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos, Pinggang Pinoy, and the importance of proper nutrition for every individual. By cultivating awareness and understanding at the community level, Ormoc City endeavors to fortify its position in the collective fight against malnutrition, nurturing a future where every child thrives from the earliest stages of life.

MILK FEEDING PROGRAM

The Ormoc City Nutrition Committee (CNC), under the distinguished leadership of Mayor Richard I. Gomez, MBA, DPA, has successfully executed a pivotal Milk Feeding Program (MFP) aimed at addressing stunted growth among specific populations within the city. Recognizing the imperative role of nutrition commencing from the "First 1,000 days of life," this program targets children aged 2-3 years who are underweight and stunted, low BMI pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The MFP not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also presents a significant opportunity to establish norms regarding healthy diets and optimal nutrition practices.

In the current year, the city will conduct two phases of the Milk Feeding Program, spanning from April 19, 2024, to June 19, 2024, and 3rd - 4th Quarter. The beneficiaries in April were identified from the 2024 Optimized Prevalence Test (OPT). Additionally, some children from April beneficiaries, who remained within the target age group and were yet to experience rehabilitation, will be included in the next feeding phase.

This strategic approach ensures a continuum of care for individuals requiring sustained nutritional support, aligning with the overarching goal of the program to mitigate stunted growth and promote overall well-being. The careful selection of beneficiaries from both OPT cycles reflects a commitment to comprehensive coverage, leaving no eligible individuals unattended.

The Milk Feeding Program, anchored by the Ormoc City Nutrition Committee, serves as a beacon of proactive governance, emphasizing the critical role of nutrition in shaping the health trajectories of the city's residents. Mayor Richard I. Gomez's leadership underscores a dedication to the well-being of the community, particularly its vulnerable segments, setting a commendable example for health initiatives that transcend immediate concerns and contribute to the enduring welfare of Ormoc City.

MILK FEEDING MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The gathered data reveals a noteworthy impact of the Milk Feeding Program, encompassing a total of 1,089 beneficiaries. Within this cohort, a substantial 91.91%, equivalent to 1,001 children, exhibited a positive trend with an increase in weight or height. However, it is essential to acknowledge that 3.2% of participants, constituting 35 children, experienced a decrease in weight or height. This decline is attributed to factors external to the milk provided, including instances of illness among the children, reluctance on the part of some mothers due to various reasons such as a child's refusal to consume the milk, and instances where beneficiaries did not complete the designated feeding duration.

Additionally, a noteworthy segment of beneficiaries, constituting 4.86% or 53 children, maintained their weight or height throughout the program. This suggests a stable nutritional status for this group, further highlighting the diverse outcomes observed within the participant pool.

The multifaceted nature of these results underscores the importance of considering various contextual factors that may influence the effectiveness of the Milk Feeding Program. Addressing challenges such as illness, maternal preferences, and completion of the feeding regimen is pivotal for a comprehensive understanding of the program's outcomes.

This nuanced perspective allows for a refined evaluation, recognizing both successes and challenges, and informs future strategies to optimize the impact of such nutritional interventions. The commitment to continuous improvement remains integral to ensuring the sustained well-being of the beneficiaries and aligns with the overarching goal of fostering positive health outcomes within the community.

Nutripack

Nutripack stands as a fortified, ready-to-cook rice porridge mix meticulously crafted from premium rice grains, offering a delightful chocolate flavor. Distinctively enriched with Vitamin A and Iron, this nutritional powerhouse not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a robust supplement.

The target demographic for Nutripack comprises children aged 6 months to 59 months, specifically those classified as wasted or moderately acutely malnourished, as well as underweight or severely underweight. The distribution of 3,150 Nutripack units, reaching 1,103 beneficiaries across all barangays, attests to the program's commitment to addressing malnutrition within the community.

DISTRIBUTION OF NUTRIPACKS 

Micronutrient Powder

Micronutrient Powder (MNP) represents a potent amalgamation of essential vitamins and minerals, renowned for its inherent safety and remarkable efficacy in mitigating micronutrient malnutrition. Conceived with precision, MNP is strategically crafted to rectify deficiencies by elevating the nutritional composition of foods. Scientifically substantiated, powdered vitamins and minerals within MNP form a proven formula, addressing the nutritional requisites crucial for optimal growth and development in infants and children.

This formulation encompasses the recommended daily allowance of 15 distinct vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, Niacin, Folate, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, and Iodine. This comprehensive array underscores MNP's commitment to providing a holistic nutritional supplement that aligns with the intricate dietary needs of young individuals.

The primary focus of MNP is directed towards children aged 6 months to 11 months and 12-23 months who are grappling with malnutrition. Positioned as a home-based food fortification for complementary foods, MNP offers a proactive approach to prevent micronutrient deficiencies, commencing at six months of age and coexisting with continued breastfeeding. Furthermore, MNP serves as a valuable addition to feeding programs, contributing to the nutritional upliftment of beneficiaries.

In the latest distribution initiative, 46,800 MNPs were disseminated to 7,790 beneficiaries across all barangays. This targeted deployment underscores the commitment to ensuring access to this vital nutritional resource for those most in need within the community.

Vitamin A Supplementation

Vitamin A supplementation is a global health strategy to eliminate vitamin A deficiency and its tragic consequences. All 6-11 months is given one dose of Vit. A and 12-59 months is given 2 doses every six months. Garantisadong Pambata is given during January and June.

DEWORMING

The National Deworming Program activity is conducted every January and July to reduce the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiasis (or intestinal parasitism) among school age children and adults.

Last January , we celebrated National Deworming Month, an initiative dedicated to improving public health by addressing parasitic infections. Through widespread deworming campaigns, educational events, and community outreach, we aimed to enhance well-being and prevent the negative effects of parasitic worms, particularly in children.

MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF LOCAL LEVEL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROTOCOL

   One of the mandates of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) is the conduct of annual Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation Protocol (MELLPI Pro). MELLPI Pro is the monitoring and evaluation system for the PPAN focusing on local level performance specifically of local government units (LGUs), local nutrition focal points (LNFPs) , and Barangays. It is also a form of capacity building and technical assistance mechanism as LGUs and LNFPs are evaluated to get to know more of the different standards for nutrition programs, where they are good and what areas they need to improve on with a set of recommendations for improvement.

  Last January - March, the Monitoring Team visited the 85 barangays of Ormoc to conduct the MELLPI Protocol. 

BARANGAY NUTRITION SCHOLARS MONTHLY MEETING

The Barangay Nutrition Scholars' monthly meeting, held every third week of the month, serves as a key platform for discussing ongoing nutrition programs, sharing updates, and addressing challenges. These meetings provide an opportunity for scholars to review progress, exchange best practices, and collaborate on strategies to improve community nutrition. The sessions aim to ensure effective implementation of local nutrition initiatives and to support the continuous professional development of the scholars.

CITY NUTRITION COUNCIL QUARTERLY MEETING

The City Nutrition Council's quarterly meeting is a strategic forum for reviewing and discussing the progress of city-wide nutrition programs. Held every three months, these meetings focus on evaluating program outcomes, addressing challenges, and planning future initiatives. The sessions facilitate coordination among stakeholders, ensure alignment with nutrition goals, and drive efforts to improve public health nutrition across the city.

 MESA NI MISIS

One of the advocacy of Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez is to promote healthy well being of Ormocanons. One of her initiative is the “Mesa ni Misis” which was founded by Juana Yupangco.  "Mesa ni Misis" is a community initiative focused on promoting healthier eating habits and improved nutrition at the household level. The program engages families, particularly mothers, in learning about and practicing nutritious meal planning and preparation. Through workshops and support activities, it aims to enhance family health, foster better dietary choices, and empower women to be key contributors to their family's well-being. She started with the LGU Mothers as the participants for the 30-days Planetary Diet. The activity was incorporated with lectures, cooking demo, blood extraction,  and measurements.

CAPACITY BUILDING

Capacity building of healthcare workers in nutrition involves providing training and resources to enhance their knowledge and skills in promoting and managing nutrition. This process includes workshops, seminars, and practical sessions focused on the latest nutrition practices, assessment techniques, and intervention strategies. The goal is to empower healthcare workers to effectively support and educate patients on nutritional health, improving overall community well-being.

LACTATION MANAGEMENT EDUCATION TRAINING (May 22-24, 2024)

                This program is designed to equip healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills in breastfeeding support and lactation management and enhance the quality of maternal and child health services by fostering a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers. Speakers from DOH Region VIII were invited.

BARANGAY NUTRITION SCHOLARS AND BARANGAY HEALTH WORKERS TRAINING