THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region proudly extends its warmest congratulations to the outstanding Nutrition Champions recognized during the “Gawad Parangal ng Nutrisyon 2025” annual awarding ceremony which celebrates the exemplary efforts of local government units, partner agencies, and community nutrition workers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment in advancing nutrition programs and promoting the health and well-being of communities across the Ilocos Region held on November 6, 2025 in Bauang, La Union.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco and Chair of the National Nutrition Council – Region 1 (NNC-R1) expressed gratitude and admiration for all the awardees during her message as guest speaker. “Our Nutrition Champions and their significant contribution in the promotion of nutrition and the over all health of our communities are living testaments to the power of dedication and collaboration. Together, we can achieve a Healthier Ilocos Region — one that thrives on proper nutrition and sustainable well-being,” she stated.
“Napakahalaga na tayo sa Region 1 ay isa sa mga may pinakamababang prevalence ng stunting at wasting among children under five batay sa latest survey ng National Nutrition Survey. At ang rates ng overweight at obesity ay below public health concern. At katuwang ang National Nutrition Council kasama ang ating mga LGUs, patuloy nating itataguyod at pagiigtingin ang mga inisyatibong healthy lifestyle, food security at tamang kaalaman sa nutrisyon,” she emphasized.
The Gawad Parangal ng Nutrisyon recognizes excellence in program implementation under the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN). This includes initiatives focused on improving dietary practices, strengthening local nutrition committees, and promoting sustainable food systems.
NNC – R1 Officer-in-Charge (OIC) and Nutrition Program Coordinator Region 1 Kendall Pilgrim A. Gatan encourage awardees and partners to continue to invest strategically especially during the First 1,000 Days of Life as it is the golden windows of opportunity that determines the lifelong health , intelligence and productivity of our people.
“I also encourage our LGUs to strengthen their human resource for nutrition, especially the Barangay Nutrition Scholars as they are the real heroes turning policies into actions and safeguarding people’s health at the community level,” he emphasized.
The DOH Ilocos Region remains committed to supporting local initiatives and strengthening multi-sectoral partnerships in the fight against malnutrition and non-communicable diseases.
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