The Department of Social Welfare and Development conducted today, September 23, 2008, supplemental feeding for evacuees who are children, pregnant women and lactating mothers in Lanao del Norte.

In the municipalities of Munai, Tangkal, and Kolambugan, over 470 children and 165 mothers were able to enjoy different health foods such as champorado, sotanghon, arrozcaldo, and corned beef as meal supplements. According to Sheryl Nacario, DSWD Nutritionist, these viands contain nutrients such as protein, iron, carbohydrates, and calcium that boost their immune system. “They need foods like these to sustain them while they are still staying in evacuation centers.”

Reports from the Department of Health revealed that most of the evacuees are now suffering from acute respiratory illness, gastrointestinal diseases, and malnutrition.

To alleviate this epidemic, DSWD has been conducting supplemental feeding for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers who are more prone to sicknesses. DSWD will regularly conduct the feeding method until the evacuees receive advice from the militia that they are now safe to return home.

(CHARMAINE P. TADLAS, DSWD-X Information Officer)