SENATE Committee on Health and Demography Chairman Christopher ‘Bong’ Go on Thursday emphasized the need to prioritize nutrition among Filipinos, particularly youth, especially those facing hardships due to health conditions.

The senator also vowed to continue advocating for enhanced food security to ensure a healthy citizenry.

“Ang bawat Pilipino ay may karapatan sa sapat at masustansyang pagkain, at ito ay isang prinsipyong aking patuloy na ipaglalaban,” said Go.

“Nakita natin ang matinding epekto ng malnutrisyon sa ating mga kabataan — sa kanilang pisikal na kalusugan at kakayahang matuto at umunlad. Dahil dito, ako’y patuloy na magsasagawa at susuporta sa iba’t ibang mga inisyatibang pang-nutrisyon tungo sa mas malusog na kalusugan para sa bawat Pilipino,” he continued.

The senator pointed out the dire consequences of the persistent issue of malnutrition in the country, which adversely affects millions of children, saying, “Malnutrition hinders not only physical growth but also cognitive development in children, posing a significant threat to their future well-being.”

During the Duterte administration, the government implemented various initiatives and enacted several laws to fight malnutrition. Notable among these efforts was the School-Based Feeding Program, which provided nutritious meals to malnourished children in public schools.

Additionally, enacting Republic Act No. 11148, also known as the Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act, was a significant step towards improving maternal and child health during the crucial early stages of life.