Nograles hails DOST-FNRI’s role in fight vs hunger, malnutrition

By Prince Golez

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles has recognized the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) as a “firm and steadfast partner” in the country’s fight against hunger and malnutrition.

Nograles issued the statement during a virtual ceremony marking the agency’s 74th founding anniversary on July 1.

“Seventy-four years of service to the Filipino people, through war, calamities and a pandemic, did not stop the DOST-FNRI from pursuing its mandate of achieving a healthy and hunger-free society. The need to address malnutrition and access to quality food has become even more important during these challenging times of Covid-19,” the official said.

Citing the World Health Organization, Nograles said around 45 percent of child deaths involving those below five years old are nutrition-related.

Figures from the 2020 Global Hunger Index also showed that the Philippines ranked 69th out of 107 countries listed, with a 19.0 or “medium” hunger rating.

“It has been shown by scientific studies that childhood undernutrition can lead to irreversible long-term effects such as impaired physical grown and cognitive development. We are focusing our energies and resources to prevent this from happening,” according to the head of the government’s Task Force on Zero Hunger.

The DOST-FNRI has conducted a Rapid Nutrition Assessment Survey last year, which will be used by the government to study the effects of the ongoing pandemic on the food and nutrition situation among the population.

Nograles also emphasized the steps taken by the agency to link their food technology adoptors and partners to farmers and food producers under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Program.

Coordination has also been made in relation to the KUMAIN Webinars participated in by development partners and stakeholders.

“DOST-FNRI’s contributions and scientific studies are invaluable. For example, virgin coconut oil has been found to be an effective dietary supplement that strengthens the immune system against Covid-19. These are the types of advocacies we need, and which we deliver through Task Force Zero Hunger and DOST-FNRI,” he concluded.

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Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)