Salinas Foods Incorporated presented a proposed nutrition and health advocacy initiative to Mayor Khymer Olaso Monday afternoon, May 11 in City Hall, as the city government mulls a potential partnership aimed at strengthening iodine nutrition programs in Zamboanga City.

The proposal, dubbed “Siglalokal: Kalusugan, Nutrisyon, at Pamahalaan Advocacy (KNPA),” was introduced by Salinas Foods President Johnny Kongkhun, focusing on improving iodine nutrition awareness and interventions, particularly for women, children and senior citizens through community-based information campaigns and possible program integration.

Mayor Olaso acknowledged the proposal and underscored the need for further study of its components, including its implementation framework and alignment with existing local health and nutrition priorities. He directed City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite to coordinate with Salinas Foods for an initial technical discussion to assess feasibility and possible areas of collaboration.

During the presentation, Salinas Foods highlighted its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), National Nutrition Council (NNC), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Iodine Global Network, particularly in advancing nutrition education and addressing micronutrient deficiencies.

The city government is expected to further evaluate the proposal in succeeding discussions to determine potential partnership arrangements that may support strengthened nutrition advocacy and public health awareness programs in the city. (Arvin Midel) (photo creduts: Jen Casido)