IN ILOILO Province, the alarming number of malnourished children has reached critical levels, prompting urgent action. The effects of malnutrition can become irreversible after the age of five, making it imperative to address this issue as soon as possible.
To combat this pressing challenge, a collaborative initiative has been launched involving the Iloilo Provincial Government, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), Negrense Volunteers for Change (NVC), the Sta. Barbara Local Government Unit (LGU), and the Provincial Health Office’s Provincial Nutrition Action Office.
On November 25, 2024, parents and their children gathered for the launch of the Mingo Meals Nutrition Program in Sta. Barbara, an event that underscored the project’s significance and its potential to transform the lives of malnourished children. The program is designed to benefit children aged 6 months to 3 years by providing nutritious meals made from organic ingredients such as malunggay (moringa), mung beans, and rice sourced from local farmers in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
The Mingo Meals initiative was initially piloted in San Miguel with support from MORE Power and was expanded to Sta. Barbara based on recommendations from health officials due to the area’s high malnutrition rates. Mayor Dennis Superficial expressed gratitude for this initiative, stating, “This is part of MORE’s corporate responsibility. We thank Roel Castro and everyone involved for addressing the needs of these children. This initiative is crucial, and we hope it continues.”
Former Senator Franklin Drilon emphasized the urgency of tackling stunting, emphasizing, “At five years old, stunting is irreversible. I will advocate for this program to ensure more children receive support.” To further incentivize progress, NVC and MORE Power will reward Barangay coordinators and officials if children meet target height and weight goals.
In addition to providing meals, regular counseling sessions on nutrition, health, and sanitation will be offered to parents. NVC stresses that addressing malnutrition before children turn three is vital to prevent irreversible consequences.
The Mingo program has already made a positive impact in areas such as Pavia, Leganes, and Leon. Dr. Wendel T. Marcelo from the Provincial Health Office noted that malnutrition is a significant food security issue and that they are working with agricultural offices to establish food gardens as part of a sustainability initiative.
Mr. Roel Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power, urged parents to take this project seriously: “While we bring power and energy, the most important source lies with our children. Electricity is useless if our future generation is malnourished; they can’t build a brighter future. The key lies with mothers, as the future depends on your children. We’ve committed to bringing this program to areas where we operate, including Negros and Bohol. In six months’ time, when we revisit, these children should no longer just be sitting on your laps; they should be running around — healthy.”
This initiative represents not just a meal program but a lifeline for many families in Iloilo Province. By addressing malnutrition head-on, we can help ensure that every child has the opportunity for a healthy future./PN
