Malnutrition threatens the growth, health, and potential of millions of children in the Philippines. Nearly 30% of children suffer from stunting—a severe, long-term consequence of chronic malnutrition that impairs physical growth, cognitive development, school performance, and lifelong productivity. Regions with higher stunting rates face even greater challenges, underscoring the urgent need for action. By focusing on the First 1,000 Days of life—a critical window for physical and mental development—we can break the cycle of malnutrition and secure a healthier future for children.
Recognizing this urgent need, Good Neighbors Philippines launched the Demand Generation for Optimal Maternal and Child Nutrition Practices Project in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. This initiative promotes community-driven solutions, empowering families to adopt better nutrition practices. The project utilizes Social Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) strategies to transform long-standing beliefs and practices surrounding nutrition through education, advocacy, and engagement.
Key Interventions includes:
1. Enhancing Training Modules and Inclusion: The ToT modules now cover ECCD, SBCC, and Financial Empowerment, providing training in local languages for pregnant women, mothers, and women of reproductive age, while encouraging men to participate for shared health responsibility.
2. Strengthening Local Health Professionals: Key LGU health professionals, including nurses and midwives, received specialized training on managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These trained professionals cascaded their knowledge to barangay health workers, ensuring grassroots implementation of maternal and child health initiatives.
3. Rolling Out Community Training: Barangay health workers led seasonal health campaigns like Nutrition Month and Breastfeeding Month, raising awareness and encouraging consistent health practices in the community.
4. Renovating a Maternal Health Training Center: The project renovated a maternal health training center, transforming it into a safe, comfortable, and professional space for consultations and training. The facility includes PWD-friendly amenities and adheres to Department of Health standards.
5. Building Multi-Sectoral Partnerships: Collaboration with local leaders and agencies strengthened program implementation. Partnerships with the Rural Health Unit, Department of Agriculture, and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office supported a holistic approach to better maternal and child health outcomes.
6. Empowering Women-Led Advocacy Groups: Mother Support Groups (MSGs) were formed to promote collaboration and share insights among mothers. Simplified SWOT analyses and monitoring tools ensured the success of health promotion activities.
On completing the project, Good Neighbors Philippines turned over its implementation to the local government of Guiuan to ensure its sustainability. This transition ensures that the program’s benefits will continue to grow and expand, building a legacy of healthier families and empowered communities.
Through this initiative, we ensure healthy beginnings and hopeful futures for us all.
A Mother’s Story of Good Change
Emilita E. Gajilan, a 41-year-old mother of three, is a shining example of the project’s impact. As a Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS) and Barangay Kagawad, Emilita witnessed her community’s struggles with maternal and child health due to lack of knowledge and engagement. Through comprehensive training, including SBCC, she gained the skills to transform her community.
“I saw a significant shift in the community’s perception and participation. Parents now actively engage in health programs, bring their children for check-ups, and understand the importance of breastfeeding and vaccinations,” she shared.
Emilita’s dedication has led to improved maternal and child health outcomes, inspiring her community to prioritize health and nutrition. Her journey highlights how empowering individuals can create lasting, positive change.
Every child deserves a healthy start. Together, let’s make it happen.