CALOOCAN CITY, (PIA) -- The country needs an estimated PhP6.5B to help the 3.64M stunted children six months to three years old. 

This is according to the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), which has been implementing the Malnutrition Reduction Program (MRP) since 2011, a science-based nutrition strategy that help address the high prevalence of underweight infants and young Filipino, in partnership with the local government units, national government agencies, and the private sector.

One pack of complementary food developed by DOST-FNRI, priced at PhP15.00, is needed per child daily, that translates to PhP 54.6M per day to feed the 3.64M stunted children for 120 feeding days.

Currently, the DOST-FNRI, through its existing complementary food production facilities, can only cover 2.04% of this projected demand.

“Kailangan po namin ng partners hindi lang po sa gobyerno, pati po sa private sector dahil ito pong problema natin na 3.64 million children ay hindi po biro. That is about 3 percent of the country’s population. But more importantly ‘yan po ang future ng ating bansa,” Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara, Undersecretary for R&D of DOST said, addressing multisector partners in a gathering dubbed as “Alay mo, Kinabukasan ko: Solidifying Intersectoral Support Against Malnutrition, organized by DOST-FNRI.

Data shows that 1 in 5 Filipino infants and young children 0-23 months old are stunted. Stunting or low-length or low-height for age is when a child has impaired growth and development due to poor nutrition. Its long-term effects include diminished cognitive and physical development, reduced productive capacity, and poor health.

“Any impaired physical and mental development during this critical phase is irreversible. This period is the “window of opportunity,” when nutrition intervention is best provided. This crucial period is the best chance to help save our children from malnutrition and illnesses,” Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Director and Scientist II of DOST-FNRI, said.

DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña expressed the DOST’s aspiration for MRP to be included once again in the National Priority Plan of the government.

The secretary specially cited NEDA, National Nutrition Council, Department of Education, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Budget and Management, and LGUs as relevant partners in the effective implementation of the program.

Some of the private sector partners who pledged commitment to reducing malnutrition in the country are Nestle, San Miguel Corporation, Robinsons, CDO Food Sphere, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corporation, Amway, Nutrition and Beyond Corporation and many others. (DOST/PIA-NCR)