The City Government of Sagay officially launched its celebration of the 51st Nutrition Month this July by focusing on food security and nutrition awareness, in line with the national theme, “Food and Nutrition Security – Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin,” according to a press release from Sagay PIO.
Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva, chairperson of the City Nutrition Council, led the planting of papaya trees and various vegetables at the City Agriculture Demonstration Farm as a symbolic start to the month-long campaign, July 7.
The activity aims to promote sustainable and healthy food sources that can be replicated in local households and communities.
In his message, Cueva said that it is important to empower families through backyard gardening, food sufficiency, and climate-smart farming.
“Good nutrition begins with accessible and nutritious food at home,” he said as he urged the Sagaynons to support local agriculture and live healthier lifestyles.
To kickstart the city’s celebration, a pre-launch activity was held from June 23 to 30, which included the distribution of live chickens to families with undernourished children.
The initiative, led by City Veterinarian Dr. Modesto “Mojo” Cañonero, is part of Sagay’s broader food security program aimed at improving access to protein-rich food sources in underserved households.
City Nutrition Action Officer Mary Visie Tajanlangit also issued the 2025 Nutrition Month briefer to inform residents about the significance of the celebration.
She said that food and nutrition security is a basic human right upheld by the Philippine Constitution and various global declarations, calling for inclusive and sustainable food policies.
Among the key messages highlighted during the campaign are the importance of proper nutrition during a child’s first 1,000 days, the benefits of growing one’s own food, the need to buy local and support farmers, and the call to reduce food waste through responsible consumption and storage.
To help local governments and partners spread the advocacy, the city is promoting the SAPAT strategies, which stand for Strengthen food policies, Amplify public awareness, Promote sustainable food systems, Activate partnerships free from conflict of interest, and Transform local food systems.
The ceremonial tree and vegetable planting was also attended by Vice Mayor Narciso “Narwin” Javelosa Jr., members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, City Nutrition staff, Bureau of Fire Protection Chief Roberto Robillo and personnel, barangay nutrition workers from Sagay’s 25 barangays, OJT students from Bago and Binalbagan, and City Agriculture staff led by City Agriculturist Julie Delima.
Throughout July, Sagay will host a series of activities including school campaigns, cooking demonstrations, and community events that align with the goals of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023–2028.
Cueva also hopes to encourage collaborative action across public and private sectors, civil society, and local communities to ensure every Sagaynon has access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food.*
