24/09/2025
September 1, 2025
The City Health Office (CHO) Nutrition Division successfully conducted an orientation for the West Mindanao State University (WMSU) Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSND) students last September 1, 2025 at Conference Room, City Health Office. The activity aimed to familiarize the students with the key nutrition and health programs being implemented by the CHO and to strengthen their understanding of public health nutrition.
The program started with a warm welcome message delivered by Ms. Jocelyn Saavedra, No III, who emphasized the important role of future nutritionists in promoting community health. Following this, Mr. Eric Bangkal, ND II, discussed the Mission and Vision of the CHO, highlighting its commitment to providing quality health services and nutrition programs for the people of Zamboanga City.
To provide technical insights, several nutrition implementors share their expertise. Ms. Rowina Pagotaisidro, NO II, talked about the First 1000 Days of Life and Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), underscoring the critical window of opportunity for child growth and development. Afterwards, I Ms. Rahima Jimlano, NO II, discussed on PIMAM (Philippine Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition), focusing on the management and prevention of malnutrition cases in the community. Ms. Jacqueline Tañamor, NO I, then presented an OPT (Operation Timbang Plus) and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), stressing the importance of proper nutrition assessment and the role of safe water and hygiene in health promotion.
The orientation was both informative and engaging, equipping the BSND students with essential knowledge about community-based nutrition programs and the health priorities of the CHO. It also served as an avenue to inspire students to actively take part in advancing nutrition and health initiatives in their future practice.