The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition: An Overview

Abstract

The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) is the blueprint for an integrated programme of nutrition interventions, formulated under the leadership of the National Nutrition Council (NNC), which serves as the coordinating body for the implementation of nutrition-related programmes and projects and has responsibility for monitoring and evaluation. The Governing Board of the NNC is chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture and nine cabinet Secretaries, and the heads of three private-sector institutions sit as members. The PPAN goals are consistent with the global call to eradicate malnutrition made during the 1992 International Conference on Nutrition. The PPAN also falls within the framework of the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan. The PPAN aims to reduce protein– energy malnutrition among children, chronic energy deficiency among adults, and micronutrient deficiencies among all population groups, with specific targets to be reached by the year 2004. Iron-deficiency anaemia, vitamin A deficiency, and iodine-deficiency disorders remain serious public health concerns. PPAN programmes are implemented in the following areas: home, school, and community food production; micronutrient supplementation; food fortification; food assistance; livelihood assistance; and nutrition education. To support the implementation of the above programmes, various enabling mechanisms have been or will be institutionalized: human resource development; advocacy; research and standards; overall planning, coordination, management, and surveillance; and resource generation and mobilization. The paper provides brief descriptions of all these programmes and enabling mechanisms.