Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. thanked and recognized the Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) for their efforts and sacrifices in addressing the nutrition problem in the province of Iloilo.
“Let us work together in the implementation of our nutrition programs. And I want to thank you for the sacrifices that you have made for the province,” he said.
The provincial government, through the Provincial Health Office, held its 1st Barangay Nutrition Scholars Convention on July 11 to 12 at Punta Villa Resort, Iloilo City.
Governor Defensor also underscored the vital roles played by the volunteer workers as barangay functionaries, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The BNS were stationed in COVID-19 centers to augment the medical workers.
“You are the frontliners of the frontliners. Salamat sa inyo tanan sa pag agwanta pulaw. Ang inyo ubra tama gid ka importante,” he said.
A total of 1,554 BNS from the five districts attended the event. There are a total of 1,800 BNS in the province of Iloilo.
Department of the Interior and Local Government Provincial Director Engr. Carmelo F. Orbista and Department of Health VI Local Health Division Chief Dr. May Ann Santa Lucia graced the event.
Presidential Decree No. 1569 mandates the creation of Barangay Nutrition Scholar program in every barangay. The BNS will be barangay-based volunteer workers responsible for delivering nutrition services and other related activities such as community health, backyard food production, environmental sanitation, culture, mental feeding, and family planning to the barangay.
They are called scholars because they undergo continuous learning under the program. During the convention, there were technical sessions on the promotion of mental health among BNS, practical tips on personality development and communication skills enhancement, and values formation and moral recovery.
Moreover, the provincial government provides P4,000 cash incentives to Barangay Nutrition Scholars every December. (Capitol News)
