Iloilo raises cash aid for nutrition scholars

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo provincial government will increase cash assistance for Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) to PHP 4,500 starting this December, recognizing their dedication and invaluable contributions to improving the nutrition status of Ilonggo children.

Provincial Administrator Raul Banias announced this during the 2nd BNS Convention held on August 1-2, 2024, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon emphasized the pivotal role BNS play in implementing nutrition programs guided by the new cycle of the Philippine Plan of Action (PPAN) 2023-2028.

She noted their significant contributions to Governor Arthur Defensor Jr.’s development initiative, the Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo (MoRProGRes ILOILO).

“You are the frontliners in our fight against malnutrition, and your actions directly impact the lives of those you serve. This convention is not just a gathering; it is a beacon of hope for a healthier future for our children and a testament to the power of collective action,” Dr. Quiñon said.

She reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to achieving a malnutrition-free Iloilo and eradicating poverty.

“Always remember that no country can break out of poverty if much of its population is malnourished. Together, let us make nutrition a priority,” she added.

Banias announced that Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. signed Supplemental Budget No. 1, which includes a PHP 500 increase in the annual cash assistance for BNS.

“We express our gratitude and thanks to our BNS volunteers for their service and their laudable contribution in reducing malnutrition prevalence in the province,” he said.

Banias also mentioned that the provincial government is considering another PHP 500 increase in the annual assistance for BNS. If approved, these volunteer workers will receive a total of PHP 5,000 each December.

Previously, Governor Defensor provided a PHP 4,000 cash allowance to barangay volunteer workers, including the BNS, in recognition of their efforts in promoting health and nutrition at the grassroots level.

The cash gift is available to those BNS who have rendered at least one year of service as volunteer workers.

The convention, which celebrated the tireless efforts of BNS in promoting nutrition and health education, was attended by 1,300 participants.

Established under Presidential Decree No. 1569, the BNS Program mandates the creation of the BNS in every barangay.

These “scholars” undergo continuous learning and are responsible for delivering nutrition services and other related activities such as community health, backyard food production, environmental sanitation, cultural activities, mental feeding, and family planning in their respective barangays.

These BNS serve as the essential link between the government and the community, ensuring that nutrition programs reach even the most remote barangays.

Department of Health Assistant Secretary and National Nutrition Council Executive Director Azucena M. Dayanghirang served as the keynote speaker.

Other notable attendees included SP Committee on Health and Sanitation Chairperson Board Member Jo Ann Germinanda, Provincial Health Officer I Dr. Wendel Tupas-Marcelo, Department of Health VI Regional Director Adriano Sub-an, NNC Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Reginaldo Guillen, and Department of the Interior and Local Government Cluster Head Grace Natalia Azarraga.

The first BNS Convention was held on July 10-11, 2023, at Punta Villa Resort in Iloilo City, organized by the Iloilo Provincial Federation of Barangay Nutrition Scholars Inc. (IPF-BNS, Inc.).

The continuing success and recognition of the BNS highlight their vital role in the community, ensuring that essential health and nutrition services reach all corners of the province.