Uswag Nutrition Center inaugurated in Iloilo City

Investing in the health of Ilonggos is an investment in the future of Iloilo City.

This was the guiding principle shared by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas during the launch of the Uswag Nutrition Center, a pioneering facility aimed at addressing malnutrition among Ilonggo children and pregnant women.

“For many years, Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon and I have firmly believed that investing in the health of our people is, in essence, an investment in the future of the Ilonggos. That is why nutrition programs have always been a top priority under our administration’s WHEELS for Inclusive Development and the RISE Iloilo City Roadmap,” said Mayor Treñas.

The center, located in the City Proper district, is the first local government-initiated facility dedicated to the production of enhanced nutribun (e-nutribun), Rice-Mongo-Sesame Blend, and other nutritious food supplements for complementary feeding.

It is the result of a strong tripartite collaboration between the Iloilo City Government, the Department of Science and Technology–Western Visayas (DOST-6), and the Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc.

The Iloilo City Government allocated ₱54 million for the four-level facility, which houses the City Health Office’s nutrition clinic, a food production facility, and multi-purpose function halls.

Additional funding support includes ₱2,080,000 from the Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc. and ₱2 million from DOST-6’s Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program, both earmarked for equipment procurement.

In April, personnel underwent Technology Transfer Training with DOST-6 on Rice-Mongo-Sesame Blend production.

Joining Mayor Treñas and Vice Mayor Ganzon at the inauguration were Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of DOST-6; Dr. Rogelio M. Florete, Chair of Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc.; Dr. Annabel P. Yumang, Regional Director of the Department of Health – Western Visayas Center for Health Development; and Sheryl C. Sedantes, OIC–Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator of the National Nutrition Council Region 6.

“Though my time in office may be coming to a close, I leave with a full heart knowing that this center will continue to serve our children, our mothers, and our grandchildren for many years to come,” Mayor Treñas said. (Pearl Socias/Iloilo City PIO)