Ifugao wins national ‘green banner’ awards

By Z. Baniya and R. Lindawan

LAGAWE, Ifugao – Gov. Eugene M. Balitang bared Ifugao won the Green Banner Award on nutrition for two consecutive years and another win would mean competing in the national level.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Mary Josephine Dulawan said during the Nutrition Month culmination the coveted win was garnered by the province for the third time and competing in the national level is underway.

As a competitor for the national award, this province celebrated Nutrition Month on August 2 at Asipulo, the youngest municipality.

The event was delayed by Typhoon Juaning but events pushed through.

The theme, “Isulongang Breastfeeding Tama, Sapat at Eksklusibo” was inspired by the concept of promoting breastfeeding with emphasis on the importance of colostrum that strengthens immunity level of babies from diseases.

Asipulo Mayor Eladio Bang-ud, cited numerous benefits of breast milk in terms of the growth and nourishment of babies.

He urged mothers not to be misled by advertisements of manufactured milks.

He commended health workers for efforts in educating mothers about the campaign on breastfeeding.

Balitang, chairman of Provincial Nutrition Council and guest of honor said nutrition is not merely eating and having a full stomach all the time but eating the right mix of foods considering that nutrition is from birth to death, and; breastfeeding does not mar the body figure of women.

He said sources of nutrition were found in the locality and all people have to do is to access these.

Considering this, he added there should be no cause for the province to be listed high in the list of malnutrition.

Ge urged parents to put to good use available sources for better health and longer living.