PGIN relaunches “nutribun” and carabao milk feeding project

In celebration of the 50th Nutrition Month, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), through the Provincial Nutrition Action Office, has relaunched the “Nutribun Pasteurized Milk Feeding and Kitchen Garden in Every Home Project” at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena in Laoag City on July 31.

This initiative aims to combat malnutrition and promote healthy eating habits among children and families in the province. The project features the distribution of Nutribuns, pasteurized carabao milk, multivitamins, and hygiene kits to underweight children, ensuring they receive nutritious food essential for their growth and development.

The revival of the Nutribun feeding program, originally introduced by the late President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr. in the 70s, was spearheaded in 2021 by Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc. Governor Marcos Manotoc emphasized the importance of local production to support the community's economy and ensure quality control.

PGIN’s version of the Nutribun comes in various flavors such as squash, monggo, ube, choco, and yema, all produced by Bakers PH, a homegrown bakery chain. The Nutribun is paired with pasteurized carabao choco-milk flavored drinks from the Philippine Carabao Center-Ilocos Norte.

During his message, Governor Manotoc highlighted the crucial role of nutrition in the holistic development of youth and the community. “We need to improve and ensure na talagang malusog ang ating probinsiya, for after all, alam po natin na, a healthy province is a productive province,” he stated.

The launch event featured a range of activities, including nutrition education sessions, the distribution of seeds to households with malnourished children, "Pinggang Pinoy" kitchen garden kits, food packs, and sacks of rice to over 200 recipients. The feeding program for the recipients will commence today, August 1, and continue for 120 days.

The “Nutribun Pasteurized Milk Feeding and Kitchen Garden in Every Home Project” is part of PGIN’s broader efforts to enhance public health and welfare to every Ilokano. By addressing immediate nutritional needs and promoting sustainable practices, the project aims to build a healthier and more resilient community in Ilocos Norte.

This effort has already shown positive results, with the prevalence of stunting decreasing to 4.7% in 2023, down from 6% the previous year, highlighting the program’s impact and effectiveness.