Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Tuesday, Feb. 3, issued a call to action for local leaders and stakeholders to unite in a “deeper and more deliberate” effort to eliminate malnutrition across Negros Occidental.
Lacson in an interview Thursday said unfortunately 25 percent of Negros Occidental’s population is classified malnourished.
In his speech before mayors and health officials at an assembly to tackle the need for a “Responsive Provincial Nutrition System” at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City , Lacson emphasized that nutrition is far more than a health concern, it is a critical economic, social, and moral pillar of governance.
“The strength of our workforce, the potential of our children, and the dignity of every Negrense family are closely intertwined with the quality of life that we are able to provide,” Lacson said.
Lacson outlined a comprehensive five-point strategy designed to institutionalize nutrition as a permanent priority in the province’s developmental roadmap:
• Data-Driven Governance: Implementing integrated information systems to ensure programs are anchored on reliable, real-time data for swift responses to emerging needs.
• Strengthened Local Leadership: Empowering provincial, municipal, and barangay nutrition committees to ensure cross-sectoral representation at every level of government.
• Strategic Financing: Deliberately embedding nutrition funding into annual investment plans and disaster preparedness frameworks rather than relying on intermittent support.
• Workforce Investment: Providing continuous training and community support for the “backbone” of the response—the physicians, nurses, and barangay nutrition scholars.
• Community-Based Programs: Cultivating healthy habits—such as breastfeeding support and sanitation practices—through partnerships with schools, faith-based groups, and the private sector.
While acknowledging the province’s advancements in facility-based deliveries and child nutrition indicators, the governor said there are hurdles that remain.
He pointed to the urgent need for expanded immunization coverage, sustained micronutrient supplementation, and improved access to safe water and sanitation.
Drawing inspiration from the success of Sarangani Province, which overcame significant developmental challenges through multi-sectoral collaboration, Lacson urged local government units (LGUs) to embrace their current realities to drive change.
“Limitations need not define outcomes,” he said.
“Let us demonstrate leadership that is responsive, governance that is inclusive, and commitment that is sustained,” Lacson said.*
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