NNC: Environmental protection key to food security, nutrition

CEBU, Philippines —The National Nutrition Council in Central Visayas (NNC-7) underscored the importance of protecting the environment as a key to achieving food security and better nutrition during the opening of the 52nd Regional Nutrition Month celebration at the Mandaue City Sports Complex on Sunday, July 5.

In his presentation, NNC-7 Program Coordinator Dr. Niño Archie Labordo said that this year’s Nutrition Month theme, “Sa PPAN: Sama-sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat, Para sa Lahat!”, together with the 2026 sub-theme, “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan,” highlights the close relationship between healthy ecosystems and nutritious food.

“Healthy diets depend on more than food choices,” Labordo said, explaining that sustainable agriculture, clean water, protected natural resources, and climate-resilient communities are all essential in ensuring that families have access to safe and nutritious food.

Labordo stressed that conserving forests, protecting mangroves, maintaining fertile soil, and ensuring access to clean water are critical in sustaining food production and improving nutrition outcomes.

He noted that environmental degradation, including improper waste disposal, deforestation, land degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions, threatens food systems and ultimately affects the health and well-being of communities.

Labordo said a healthy ecosystem supports the production of nutritious crops, improves food availability, and contributes to raising well-nourished children who can become productive members of society.

He added that these efforts are aligned with the Philippine Development Plan and Ambisyon Natin 2040, which aim to improve human development and strengthen the country’s long-term economic productivity.

The City Government of Mandaue reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening nutrition programs and promoting healthy workplaces.

Delivering the message of Mayor Thadeo Jovito Ouano, Councilor Raul Kevin Cabahug, chairperson of the Mandaue City Council Committee on Health and chairperson of the Hospital Services Committee, emphasized that nutrition goes beyond government meetings and reports. He said it is ultimately about ensuring children are healthy, families can provide nutritious food, and communities receive the support they need to live better lives.

He also reiterated this year’s Nutrition Month theme, stressing the connection between nutrition and environmental protection.

“If we take care of our surroundings and protect our resources, we also help secure healthier food and a better future for the next generation,” the mayor’s message read, adding that community cooperation remains essential in achieving better nutrition outcomes.

Ouano assured participants that the City Government of Mandaue will continue supporting programs that strengthen nutrition, public health, and community awareness while expressing gratitude to nutrition workers and volunteers for their dedication and service.

In his own remarks, Cabahug, a registered nurse by profession, underscored the vital role of frontline workers and grassroots implementers in delivering nutrition and health programs.

He reminded stakeholders not to neglect their own health, noting that nutrition and health programs become more effective when the implementers themselves are healthy.

Meanwhile, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) and the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement Central Visayas called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, civil society, academe, and communities.

In her closing message, Estee Marie Plunket, RAFI Chief Communications and Partnership Officer and Overall Coordinator of the SUN Movement Central Visayas, emphasized that nutrition is a shared responsibility that requires the collective efforts of all sectors.

“Today’s event reminds us that nutrition is a shared responsibility,” Plunket said.

She said the official opening of Nutrition Month was highlighted by the inaugural “Run for Roots 2026,” describing it as the first unified advocacy run of the SUN Movement, a global movement under the NNC that brings together different sectors to advance nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programs.

Plunket recognized the youth sector for spearheading the advocacy run. She said every step taken by participants contributes not only to promoting healthier lifestyles but also to supporting environmental sustainability.

The proceeds of the run will support a tree-growing activity in Balamban, Cebu, which will serve as the culminating activity of this year’s Nutrition Month celebration.

“This is a meaningful reflection of our theme, ‘Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan,’ because when we protect nature, we also protect nutrition and future generations,” she said.

“These seedlings remind us that today’s commitments will grow into tomorrow’s healthier and greener communities,” she added.

According to Plunket, every participant who registered for the six-kilometer category corresponds to one Cebu cinnamon tree to be planted, while each 12-kilometer registrant represents two trees. With around 270 runners joining the event, hundreds of trees are expected to be planted in Balamban.

She also highlighted the Pledge of Commitment and the symbolic Leaves of Commitment signed during the opening ceremony, saying each leaf represents a promise to advance nutrition and environmental protection beyond the month-long celebration.

“As we officially open the 52nd National Nutrition Month Celebration in Central Visayas, let this mark the beginning of even stronger partnerships and more meaningful action,” Plunket said.

“Together, let us continue proving that when sectors unite, communities thrive. When we protect nature, we nourish lives,” she added.