Vol. 26 No. 4 October- December 2009 ISSN Number: 0166-2985

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Director’s Message..........Writers’ Pool Corner .......News Flash .....................Human Resource in Focus...............................Library Acquisition ..........

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What’s InsideF 11

7th NNS dissemination forum heldCFPatalen, SRS I, NAMD@

Sen. Edgardo J. Angara delivers keynote address during the 7th NNS Dissemination Forum held at Thani Dusit Hotel last November 23, 2009

With the theme “7th National Nutrition Survey (NNS): Vital Inputs to Nutrition

Governance for Sustainable Development”, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) presented the results of the survey in a dissemination forum held last November 23, 2009, in Dusit Thani Manila, Ayala Center, Makati.

The 7th NNS is the biggest survey of the FNRI-DOST in the last 30 years. It has eight survey components, namely: anthropometry, biochemical, clinical, dietary, economics, food security, government health and nutrition program participation, genomics and health.

More than 36,000 households participated in the survey conducted from May to December of 2008 and March of this year. Seventeen regions and seventy-nine provinces, plus the National Capital Region, were surveyed by 300 competent researchers of the FNRI-DOST.

The Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring Division (NAMD) of the FNRI-DOST organized the 7th NNS results dissemination forum. The NAMD has been involved in the conduct of periodic nationwide nutrition surveys to assess the nutritional status of the population and subsequently communicates the survey data to stakeholders.

Dr. Trinidad P. Trinidad, Scientist II of the DOST facilitated the opening ceremonies during the forum while the FNRI Chorale led the invocation and the singing of the Philippine National anthem.

Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director of the FNRI-DOST, welcomed the participants and guests of the forum. He expressed his gratitude to the FNRI’s dedicated partners from government agencies, non-government organizations, private sector, academe, the media, and science and international communities.

Dr. Capanzana said that the 7th NNS is the fruit of the Institute’s labor and dedication to update the official statistics on the Philippine food,

nutrition and health situation. He also emphasized that the release of the 7th NNS results is an opportune time to assess the progress of the country towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and to determine the effectiveness of current nutrition and health interventions and strategies. Moreover, the 7th NNS findings will serve as inputs in the planning cycle for the Medium-Term Philippine

Director’s Message

2 FNRI Digest

Editorial STAFF

Zenaida V. Narciso, Ph.D. Editor-in-Chief

Salvador R. SerranoAssistant Editor

Marilou R. GalangIssue Editor

Imelda A. Agdeppa, Ph.D.Victor Franco J. Alfonso, Jr.

Ennata AvenaFilipiniana B. Bragas

Marilou R. GalangMa. Idelia G. Glorioso

Eva A. GoyenaCharina A. Javier

Czarina Teresita S. MartinezMa. Corazon E. Palompo

Chona F. PatalenContributors

Erlinda V. IlaoCompositor

Romeo R. ArtuzArtist

Gil D. ArtuzCirculation Manager

Richard B. MagnoCirculation Assistant

AdvisersMario V. Capanzana, Ph.D.

DirectorZenaida V. Narciso, Ph.D.

OIC, Office of the Deputy Directorand Chief Science Research Specialist,

RUMDCeleste C. Tanchoco, Dr.PH

Scientist III and Chief Science Research Specialist, NSTDCorazon M. Cerdeña

Chief Science Research Specialist, NAMDTeresita R. Portugal

Supervising Science Research Specialist and OIC, FSTD

Ferdinand B. Oamar, DPAChief Administrative Officer, AFD

Office Address: FNRI Building, DOST Compound, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telefax: 837-2934/837-3164; email: zvn@fnri.dost.gov.ph; website: http://www.fnri. dost. gov.ph

FNRI Digest Editorial Board

development was conducted. A workshop was held after the forum to serve as a venue for nutrition and health exchange among various agencies from the government and private sectors on the application of the 7th NNS results. The FNRI participated in national and international seminars and workshops to contribute to the cause of nutrition security, prevention of osteoporosis, promotion of dietary fiber and rice fortification. The Institute also conducted nutrition and technology trainings in the regions and participated in science and technology fairs in Laguna, Naga City and Pangasinan.

This last quarter issue of the Digest features articles on healthy lifestyle and proper diet plus the regular features like the photo news, human resource in focus, news flash and new library acquisition. It is our way of keeping our readers updated on the latest research outputs and activities of the FNRI.

Next year, the FNRI assures its stakeholders of more vigorous and demand-driven programs, projects and activities that will reach out to the regions and provinces. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our valuable partners who made it possible for the Institute to strengthen the implementation of its sworn mandates. Special thanks to Coca-Cola Export Corporation for printing the 2009 issues of the Digest. May our partnership grow stronger in the coming years.

Maligayang pasko at manigong bagong taon sa ating lahat!

Greetings!

The last quarter of 2009 signifies, on one hand, the coming of Christmas. Many of us anticipate the year-end bonus and other incentives. Everyone is busy preparing Christmas gift lists, planning the menu for the Noche Buena and Media Noche, and doing Christmas shopping.

On the other hand, the last quarter signals that we, at the Institute have to sit down and reflect on what the year has brought us. It is the time to review work performances vis-à-vis the plans set for the year.

I’d like to quote a familiar phrase from a Shakespearean novel that says: “To be or not to be, that is the question”, to spell out the realization or non-realization of the vision of the FNRI for the country and its people, and of our dreams for the family.

Applied to each individual staff of the FNRI, the answer to the question of “to be or not to be” of our dreams rests upon us, our attitude towards life and the level of our expression of gratitude to God for our very existence.

The dissemination forum for the 7th National Nutrition Survey results which serve as vital inputs to nutrition governance for sustainable MARIO V. CAPANZANA, Ph.D.

Director

Writers’ Pool Corner

3FNRI Digest

Ang brownies ay isa sa mg paborito nating i-regalo sa ating mga kaibigan tuwing Kapaskuhan. Karaniwang ginagawa ang brownies nang may halong butter o margarine. Nguni’t, alam ba ninyo na maaari kayong gumawa ng masarap at malinamnam na brownies na hindi gumagamit ng butter o margarine?

Tama ang narinig ninyo. Ang prunes ay maaaring gawing pamalit sa mantekilya o margarina sa paggawa ng brownies. Ayon kay Dr. Fem Barcelon, isang balik

Low-fat brownies sa KapaskuhanCTSMartinez, SRS I, RUMD@

scientist ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST), dahil sa mataas na fiber ng prune puree kaya nitong panatiliing chewy ang loob at crunchy naman ang ibabaw ng brownies. O, di ba yan ang hinahanap ninyo sa brownies?

Ganito ang paggawa ng prune puree: Sa food processor, ilagay ang 6 na kutsarang tubig, ilagay ang 1 1/3 tasa o 120 gramo ng dried prunes, yung walang buto o pitted. Paandarin ang food processor hanggang maging puree ang

prunes. Ang nabanggit na sangkap ay makagagawa ng isang tasang prune puree.

Kaya sa mga mahilig gumawa ng brownies, kunin ang dating resipe at subukang palitan ang isang tasang butter o margarine ng isang tasang prune puree. Siguradong magugustuhan ninyo ang brownies na ito, masarap at malinamnam na, low-fat pa.

Masaya at malusog na Pasko po!p

Latest results of the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research

Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) showed that 26.3 percent, or one in every four Filipino pregnant women is nutritionally at-risk. Pregnant women who were below the 95th percentile based on weigh-for-height cut-off points are considered nutritionally-at-risk.

The proportion of nutritionally-at-risk pregnant women significantly decreased by 2.1 percentage point from 2005 with a 28.4 percent prevalence rate to 26.3 percent in 2008.

However, the government’s target which is the reduction to 20.9 percent of nutritionally-at-risk pregnant women by 2010 may not be likely achieved.

Improvement in maternal health is the fifth among the Millennium

1 out of 4 Filipino pregnant women nutritionally at-riskCAJavier, SRS I, RUMD@

Development Goals which the Philippines has committed to achieve along with other nations.

Pregnant women have high nutritional needs. A pregnant woman not only has to satisfy her own nutritional requirements but also of the growing fetus in her womb.

Her nutritional status before and during pregnancy determines the nutritional status of her infant at birth and months and years after that.

Poor nutrition among pregnant women results to low birth weight babies and may experience difficult labor and major complications such as severe hemorrhages, infections, high blood pressure and abscesses of the breasts, among others.

The NNS also showed that 43 in every 100 pregnant women are anemic.

Though the prevalence decreased from 43.9 percent in 2003 to 42.5 percent in 2008, the rates are not significantly different. The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women is still of high public health concern.

Since 1993, there was no significant improvement in the iron status of Filipino pregnant women with 43.6 percent prevalence rate in 1993 the prevalence went up to 50.7 percent in 1998, down to 43.9 percent in 2003 and 42.5 percent in 2008. Anemic mothers predispose infants to anemia.

The results of the survey call for a more intensified program to reduce the prevalence of chronic energy deficiency (CED) and anemia among pregnant women especially so that they bear children of the next generation. p

4 FNRI Digest

The latest National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute

of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) revealed that from 2003 to 2008, there was an increasing trend of overweight and obesity among adults aged 20 years and over.

In 1998, there were about 20 out of 100 adults who were overweight. The number increased to 24 and 27 out of 100 in 2003 and 2008, respectively.

Overweight, when left unattended, may result to many chronic degenerative diseases like diabetes mellitus, heart diseases, and hypertension.

In 2008, the 7th NNS says, 2.7% Filipino adults aged 20 years and over were suffering from impaired fasting glucose. Hyperglycemia or high fasting blood sugar (FBS) level was found among 4.8% adults.

The prevalence of hypertension

among adults was 25%, increasing with age starting from age 40-49 years.

Diabetes is a disease characterized by elevated blood sugar levels due to deficiency or absence of insulin which is needed to utilize blood sugar to turn it into energy.

The signs and symptoms of diabetes are numerous. These include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, sudden weight loss, weakness and fatigue, recurring or hard-to-heal wound or gum infection, drowsiness, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, itching of skin and genitals, sudden vision changes, and blurred vision.

More overweight Filipinos at risk to heart disease, diabetes and hypertension

IAAgdeppa, Ph.D, Assistant Scientist@

Hypertension, on the other hand, is a disorder characterized by sustained systolic blood pressure reading equal to or more than 140 millimeters mercury (mmHg) or a diastolic blood pressure reading of equal to or more than 90 mmHg.

Hypertension increases the danger of acquiring heart diseases.

These health data indicate that policymakers need to develop appropriate policies and strategies to prevent the continuing increase in the number of overweight Filipinos.

At present, a lot of methods like fad diets, diet pills, and fasting may indeed induce rapid weight loss and these attract a lot of people who want to be slim.

However, like any sudden change to the body, these can be dangerous because they may also injure the heart and other organs.

So it is important to take caution and consult a doctor or dietitian before taking any action.

To reduce weight, take the advice of nutritionists to go natural, healthily and sustainably, like losing weight by eating less food or less high-energy foods and exercising more.

Reducing weight does not mean starving oneself because everyone has a basic nutritional requirement to meet each day.

Rather than going without meals altogether, everyone is encouraged to practice a healthy lifestyle through a proper diet, good nutrition, increased physical activity, and regular exercise habit.

Brisk walking, taking the stairs, and doing household chores are examples of simple forms of exercise which help burn calories.

A healthy lifestyle is also synonymous to not smoking and avoiding alcoholic beverages, practices that have been associated with heart disease and hypertension.

Message # 10 of the Nutritional

Guidelines for Filipinos says “for a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition, exercise regularly, do not smoke, and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages”.

The secret to weight loss is:

making small changes each day that will slowly but surely lose those extra pounds.

The key is to forget about instant results and settle in for the long run.

The following are tips on how to lose weight:

Eat less energy-dense foods, especially foods high in fat;Eat more foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grain cereals;Eat at regular meal time; constantly going hungry is not the answer;Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day;Drink alcoholic beverages moderately (less than 1 drink per day for women and less than 2 drinks per day for men); andExercise regularly for at least about 20 to 30 minutes a day in order to use up energy stores.

p

5FNRI Digest

Running and having fun under the treesCAJavier, SRS I, RUMD@

I never imagined myself to become a running enthusiast... until this year.

It started when some of my friends and I planned to join a charity climb to Mt. Pulag early this year. I only exercised occasionally then, so I decided to jog more regularly at our office grounds. It was awkward at first because I was the only person running around the compound after office hours. Many of my officemates, who are on their way home, would tease me as a fitness buff which I did not intend to become. After the climb, I thought I would go back to becoming an occasional exercise practitioner when my officemate, Marco, approached and told me that he wants to join my after-office jogging. And so it became a habit.

Marco introduced me into joining fun runs. It was only this year that he started to join running events. Most of the fun runs are held on Sundays. We tried one event, then another, and another. Today, our Sundays are days to look forward to. There are a lot of reasons why.

First, we get to exercise. We are working in an Institute that promotes good nutrition and healthy lifestyle. Thus, it is but fitting that we, who advocate the principle, should walk the talk. After all, we need it to work more productively and enjoy everyday life.

Second, we get to help people. Fun runs have causes that we support. We run for the environment, for cancer patients, for persons with disabilities, for social justice, among others.

Third, we get to bond with friends and meet new ones. Joining fun runs has never been more exciting than having friends around. We also become familiar with fellow runners who also religiously join these events.

Fourth, we get to relax and think aloud. When running, we get to have a good conversation while passing through the shady acacia trees at the University of the Philippines-Diliman campus grounds. We are able to reflect from the various snapshots of different kinds of people and activities in Luneta and Roxas Boulevard. We can even think aloud about the urban life while taking a roundabout in Fort Bonifacio. We get to release the angst. We relieve stress.

Lastly, we take home freebies and photos. Fun run organizers always have something to give away to runners who join the event, like singlets or finisher shirts, beverages to quench the thirst and sometimes, even a complete meal.

I’m not a professional runner, as you might think I am. Honestly, I have

Do you know that among households who gave correct examples of

food products with the Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPS), 77.5 percent bought products with the SPS?

This is a result of the 7th National Nutrition Survey done by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST)

Filipinos buy food products with Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPS) - FNRIMIGGlorioso, Sr.RS, RUMD@

in which researchers determined households awareness and usage of food products with SPS.

The SPS is the local term referring to the seal given by the Department of Health (DOH) to food products that have been certified as fortified with three essential micronutrients, namely: vitamin A, iron and iodine, singly or in combination.

Remember, when buying processed foods, look for the SPS.

Enjoy good nutrition at affordable price and easy reach through products with the SPS.

But bear in mind that eating a variety of foods everyday is the key to good nutrition.p

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Category Title AuthorNutritional Assessment Validation of Dietary Diversity

Score as Indicator of Nutrient Adequacy

Rhea Benavides-de Leon

Food Fortification for Optimal Nutrition

Social Marketing Efforts for the Promotion of Iron-Fortified Rice: An on Going Study in Bataan

Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa

Nutrition/Food Policy and Program

Prescribing Iron Supplements: Is it Effective?

Jocelyn A. Juguan

Isotopic Techniques Body Composition of Pre-Pubertal Children

Trinidad P. Trinidad

Nutrition Management of Diabetes

Some Commonly Consumed Fruits in the Philippines: Are They Good and Safe for Diabetes

Trinidad P. Trinidad

School Nutrition Changes in Bone Mineral Content and Bone Mineral Density in Children Fed with Milk

Aida C. Mallillin

Novel Approaches in Dietary Assessment

Energy Expenditure, Dietary Intake, and Nutritional Status Among Filipino Female Older Persons

Gemma P. Yuchingtat

Nutritional Assesment: Others

Magnitude of Predominant Malnutrition Problems among Filipino Preschool Children

Juanita R. Marcos

Evidence-based Policies & Programs to Address the Global Health and Nutrition Goals

Resource Capability of Selected Local Government Units in Implementing Pre-natal Iron Supplementation

Jocelyn A. Juguan

News Flash

VJAlfonso, SRS I, RUMD@

6 FNRI Digest

FNRI staff present papers at the 19th International Congress of Nutrition

This year, the 19th International Congress of Nutrition (ICN) was held at the Bangkok

International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) Bangkok, Thailand from October 4 to 9.

The ICN has been organized quadrennially under the auspices of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS). This year, the Congress was brought to Asia for the first time in 20 years!

Bearing the theme: “Nutrition Security for All”, the Congress focused on a world that has both the knowledge and the resources to combat hunger in order to help provide innovative solutions to present and future challenges. These challenges include securing the need for safe and adequate food supply, and delivery of basic nutrition and health services, thereby improving the quality of life of people in communities around the world.

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(L-R): Ms. Purita Florentino, Dr. Imelda A. Agdeppa, Dr. Corazon VC. Barba, Dr. Rodolfo F. Florentino, Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Ms. Josephine Capanzana, Dr. Trinidad P. Trinidad, and Ms. Ivy Caiña at the 19th ICN.

The Congress addressed nutrition as an integrative concern, linked with other disciplines such as biomedical and life sciences, food and agriculture, social and behavioral sciences which engage and advance evidence-based policies and programs within comprehensive food and health delivery systems.

The presence of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) was greatly felt because of the research reports and posters presented by FNRI staff in the ICN.

There were nine (9) researches presented as posters by FNRI staff as shown below:

7FNRI Digest

EAGoyena, SRS I, NAMD@

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FNRI-DOST facilitates “accepting the challenges” workshop

A workshop with a theme “Accepting the Challenges” was held last November 24,

2009 at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati City to provide a venue for nutrition and health exchange on the results of the 7th National Nutrition Survey (NNS).

The workshop was part of the two-day dissemination forum organized by the Nutrition Assessment and Monitoring Division of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI-DOST).

.The workshop was led by Chief

Science Research Specialist Ms. Corazon M. Cerdeña and co-chaired

by Dr. Jocelyn A. Juguan, a Senior Science Research Specialist.

It was specifically designed to enable the various agencies both from government and private sectors to respond to current nutrition and health issues emanating from the results of the 7th NNS. Strategic priorities and future directions aligned with the updated Medium Term Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (MTPPAN) were identified.

Dr. Zenaida V. Narciso, Officer in-Charge of the Deputy Director’s Office of the Institute briefly presented the synthesis of the 7th

Media briefing on the 7th NNS results heldMRGalang, Sr.RSRS, RUMD@

NNS dissemination forum of Day 1 to provide points for discussion during the workshop.

Afterwards, Mr. Danilo Villa B. Agcopra, Nutrition Officer IV of the National Nutrition Council of the Department of Health (NNC-DOH) discussed the mechanics of the workshop and facilitated the entire workshop.

Participants were divided into 3 groups, each assigned a major issue to work on. The group on Undernutrition was chaired by Dr. Imelda A. Agdeppa, Assistant Scientist of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The Food

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and

Technology (FNRI-DOST) held a press conference to inform its media partners on the latest update of the nutrition situation of the country last November 23, 2009 in Dusit Thani Hotel, Ayala Center, Makati, City. The presscon was held side by side with the conduct of the dissemination forum on the 7th National Nutrition Survey (NNS) whereby the results of the survey were presented to its various stakeholders.

Present during the conference were members of the press from Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, Manila Standard, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Business Mirror representing the print media. Media partners from ABS-CBN, NBN 4, GMA 7, Net 25, IBC 13, DZAS, DZEM, DZEC, DWAD represented the broadcast media.

During the media briefing, FNRI Director, Dr. Mario V. Capanzana

started his talk by citing the mandates of the Institute as provided under Executive Order 128. He added that the conduct of the national nutrition survey is a designated statistical activity as provided for in Executive Order 352 aimed at generating critical data for the decision-making

of the government and the private sectors.

He explained the scope, coverage and sampling design employed in the conduct of the

F10

Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, FNRI Director, being interviewed by the media during the presscon on the 7th NNS at the Dusit Thani Hotel last November 23, 2009

8 FNRI Digest

10 FNRI Digest

Media briefing on 7th NNS results...... from p. 7

p

FNRI Director Dr. Mario V. Capanzana gave a talk in the pre-conference symposium on Hydration and Health in the afternoon of October 4, 2009.

FNRI staff presents .... from p 6

NNS. Finally, he reported on the results of the 2008 NNS zeroing on the highlights of the following components of the survey: anthropometric, biochemical, clinical and health, dietary particularly on infant feeding practices, food insecurity and government program participation.

After Dr. Capanzana’s presentation, Mr. Salvador R. Serrano, emcee-moderator of the program opened the floor for questions of the media. Foremost of the questions raised by the media was on the possible reasons for the reported results of the survey, particularly the persistent problem of undernutrition among young children. The second issue that drew the interest of the media were the projects and activities currently

being done by FNRI to address the problem.

To answer the first question, Dr. Capanzana pointed to the data showing that while exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding with complementary feeding remained as the major feeding mode among 0-5 year olds, the mean duration of exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding in general fell short of WHO recommendations in order for the infant to obtain the most benefit from breastfeeding.

Dr. Capanzana also pointed to the increasing problem of overnutrition among young children and even adults for which he cited the lack of physical activity as a possible contributory factor.

To address the pressing problem of malnutrition, he

enumerated the various projects and activities of the Institute that include the development of nutritional food products and fortified foods, development and pilot testing of nutrition interventions promoting healthy lifestyle, and the development, and pretesting of nutrition education strategies. These projects, he added, are conducted in cooperation with industry partners, the academe, non-government organizations and other government institutions.

The media briefing ended with Dr. Capanzana thanking the media for their presence and continued support to the cause of nutrition and health. At the same time, he expressed his desire that the partnership of FNRI with the media would remain and continue to blossom.

The pre-conference symposium was organized by ILSI North America, ILSI Southeast Asia Region and ILSI Europe. Dr Capanzana presented the paper

on Hydration: Consumption Data and Food Sources which covered different types of fluids and their sources.

F 16

only been joining the 5-kilometer category in the fun runs. My goal is to finish the race, feel fresh air and enjoy the company of people who do the same thing. By finishing the race, I have helped others even in the most little way I can.

It is surprising for me to become fond of running. I had weak lungs when I was young and so my parents would often not let me join sports activities at school or in the community. I would often bring a medical certificate at school for

exemption from attending such activities. I realized only in college that I can improve my health by being more physically active. Our university offers the most inviting scenery for walking or jogging.

Today, the narra trees lining up the streets of the DOST compound are some of the things that I like, resembling the atmosphere of UP, offering a nice, refreshing environment to walk after work. I recently discovered that it also offers a pleasant venue to regularly

exercise such as jogging. I’ve seen a few people jogging around the compound, too. I hope that people who often remark that they would like to join our after-office jogging sessions would really join us.

My friend Marco and I wish to have a running club in our workplace. We dream that someday, just like some companies, we would also join fun runs as a group. That, I think, would be a group of movers for S&T, for health and fitness, and of course, for fun.

Running and having fun ...... from p. 5

p

FNRI-DOST facilitates “Accepting the challenges ..... from p. 7

7th NNS dissemination forum..... from p. 1

F 12

p

Insecurity group was led by Ms. Josie Alitagtag of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The Non-communicable Diseases group (NCDs) was headed by Dr. Cecilia S. Acuin of the University of the Philippines, Manila.

Generally, the working groups crafted nutrition and health strategies on a population-based approach targeting across all ages to achieve the desired impact of the existing programs.

All agreed on the need for advocacy meetings with key stakeholders to generate support and sustainability for these programs.

Development Plan (MTPDP) and the Medium-Term Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (MTPPAN).

Professor Fortunato T. dela Peña, Undersecretary for Scientific and Technological Services, DOST delivered the opening message of Secretary Estrella F. Alabastro of the DOST. The Secretary in her message extended her appreciation for all the support given to the FNRI to realize the conduct of a more comprehensive national nutrition survey. “This is a huge undertaking of the Institute that would give a picture of the country’s standing in terms of the impact of government policies and programs,” added Secretary Alabastro in her message.

Senator Edgardo J. Angara, Chair of the Committee on Science and Technology, in his keynote address underscored the value of health and reaching those families who need assistance and adequate healthcare. He has lobbied policies

for health reforms and spearheads health and nutrition programs to respond to the needs of the people based on results of nutrition surveys.

As a culmination of his address, a video on OMG! (Oh My Gulay!) was presented to the audience. This video is an advocacy of Senator Angara that has a simple, powerful, and urgent message to solve micronutrient deficiencies by eating vegetables.

The dissemination forum consisted of two sessions with each session composing of presentations that focused on the prevalence, trends and location of highly affected areas in terms of nutrition and health problems.

The first session on “The State of Nutrition of Filipinos, from early to later life”, was moderated by Dr. Celeste C. Tanchoco, Scientist III and Chief Science Research Specialist of the FNRI-DOST. It included a discussion on the

overview of the 7th NNS, and the presentation of the results of the anthropometric, biochemical and dietary components of the survey.

Mrs. Corazon M. Cerdena, the

overall project leader of the 7th NNS presented the overview of the 7th NNS. Here, Ms. Cerdena described the objectives of the NNS, the uses and users of the NNS data, the survey components, the scope and coverage and sampling design of the survey. She also mentioned the two executive orders that formed the legal basis for the conduct of the NNS.

Mrs. Ma. Lilibeth P. Dasco, Senior Science Research Specialist presented the results of the anthropometric survey component. The report highlighted the following findings: (a) the significant increase from 2005 to 2008 in the prevalence of undernutrition among children 0-5 and 6-10 years old, (b) the decrease in chronic energy deficient concomitant with an increase in

11FNRI Digest

Mr. Danilo Villa B. Agcopra, Nutrition Officer IV of NNC as he facilitated the group discussion during the workshop on “Accepting the Challenges”.

Ms. Julieta B. Dorado, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the Institute gave the

After a lively i n t e r a c t i o n during the p r e s e n t a t i o n , Dr. Mario V. C a p a n z a n a , FNRI Director, handed these challenges to Mr. Agcopra as e n d o r s e m e n t to the NNC-DOH being the lead agency to coordinate m u l t i - s e c t o r a l actions to face the challenges.

synthesis of the program, along with her closing remark.

F 13

Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, FNRI Director, attended two workshops aimed to

accelerate the progress of rice fortification to reduce the burden of micronutrient deficiencies. The workshops, organized by the Center for Health Innovation and Partnership (CHIP), were held at Sebel Hotel in the famous Manly beach, Sydney, Australia.

The first workshop was consultative in nature. The activity was entitled “Rice fortification for future potential for an alliance: how can we make it work?”. It focused on building a global public private network to support further development of rice fortification throughout the world.

Building partnerships – FNRI Director attends rice fortification workshopsMRGalang, Sr.RS, RUMD@

The consultation workshop was convened in collaboration with the Program for Appropriate Technologies (PATH), based in Seattle, Washington. It was held last December 1-2, 2009.

The second expanded workshop was called “Building partnerships for better health in Pacific Island countries: the opportunity for rice fortification”. It aimed at identifying concrete steps that are needed to bring the benefits of rice fortification to the Pacific Island Region. Participants to this workshop included policy makers, rice export-import companies, and food traders. The expanded workshop was conducted last December 3-4, 2009.

Both workshops are supported by the Australian Government (AusAID) and Sydney West Area Health Service (SWAHS).p

7th NNS dissemination forum..... from p. 10

12 FNRI Digest

overweight and obese adults, 20 years and over from 2003 to 2008 and (c) the decrease in both undernutrition and overnutrition among pregnant women from 2005 to 2008.

Mrs. Leah A. Perlas, Supervising

Science Research Specialist, presented the biochemical component on iron and iodine nutriture. Highlighted during Ms. Perlas’ presentation were: (a) a general improvement in the anemia problem as shown by a decreasing trend in its prevalence and (b) iodine deficiency disorders remain a public health concern among pregnant and lactating mothers.

Mrs. Adrienne S. Constantino, Senior Science Research Specialist presented the Dietary Component on Infant Feeding Practices. Ms. Constantino underscored the following results: (a) exclusive breastfeeding was significantly higher in 2008 compared to 2003 and (b) mean duration of breastfeeding was 4.9 months while that of exclusive breastfeeding was

2.3 months. Both durations fell short of the World Health Organization recommendations of exclusive breastfeeding from birth to six months and for breastfeeding to continue up to two years.

The panel discussants for this session were Dr. Jaime Galvez-Tan, Professor of College of Medicine, UP Manila; Dr. Teofilo O.L. San Luis, Jr. Director and Country Representative of the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (ICCIDD); and Ms. Elham Monsef, Nutrition Specialist from the UNICEF. They shared their valuable insights and analysis on the results presented.

Dr. Tan was “healthily angry” about the 7th NNS results, calling all organizations to work extra hard and come up with action points to respond to the needs of identified nutritionally-depressed areas of the country. Dr. Tan was appalled, yet challenged by the nutrition situation. “Healthy anger” he said, is what he demands of the participants to be able to reflect on these data.

Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa,

Assistant Scientist of DOST moderated the second part of the first session which included reports on the results of the food insecurity and government program participation survey components.

Dr. Jocelyn A. Juguan, Senior Science Research Specialist presented the food insecurity component. In her presentation, Dr. Juguan highlighted the increased percentage of mothers/caregivers who experienced food insecurity during the last 3 months prior to the NNS which was noted in 3 out of 17 regions of the country. Skipping and missing meals were the most common experiences of food insecurity.

Results of government program participation were given by Mrs. Marina B. Vargas, Senior Science Research Specialist. In her presentation, Ms. Vargas pointed out the generally low participation of households in most government programs.

Our country is very vulnerable to the destructive effects of climate change due to

global warming. The impact of global warming to an archipelago in the Philippines include destruction of property, damage to environment, tremendous number of injury, morbidity, death, loss of livelihood and prevalence of household food insecurity and malnutrition.

Moreover, people are exposed to traumatic events like calamities and famine that involve intense emotional fear and psychological disturbances.

NUTRINET seminar on nutrition and stress debriefing heldFBBragas, SRAnalyst, RUMD@

Disaster preparedness and mitigation should be intensified through advocacy for cost effective interventions especially in providing stop-gap and long-term provisions or supplementary to basic needs such as food and proper nutrition.

A seminar with the theme “Stress Debriefing during Disaster” was conducted last November 25, 2009 at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office lV- B at Malate, Manila. The Seminar was held by the NUTRINET. NUTRINET stands

for Nutrition Research Information Network (NUTRINET) which consists of 15 member-institutions.

The seminar aimed to disseminate food and nutrition issues in emergencies, and to recommend suitable strategies that could help relieve people from any pain they experience during vulnerable times in their lives.

The NUTRINET invited Director

Suzette M. Agcaoili of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who shared her valuable insights on “Stress Debriefing during Disaster” while Ms. Florinda V. Panlilio of the Department of Health (DOH) tackled “Nutrition Management in Emergencies”.

Member-institutions also showcased their respective visions, missions, and on-going programs and projects in the poster exhibit.

The seminar is a yearly activity of the Network held in offices of the member-institutions on a rotation basis.p

(From L-R: Ms. Florinda V. Panlilio DOH-HEMS talked on “Nutrition Management in Emergencies”; Director Suzette Agcaoili, DSWD shared insights in “Stress Debriefing during Disaster”, NUTRINET Seminar, November 25, 2009)

7th NNS Dissemination Forum..... from p. 11

The second session entitled “Health and Nutrition-related problems among Filipino adults” was moderated again by Dr. Celeste C. Tanchoco. This session included discussions on the results on the clinical and health component of the survey.

Mrs. Charmaine A. Duante, Senior Science Research Specialist, reported on the clinical and health component of the NNS. In her report, Ms. Duante underscored these results: (a) the significant increase in the prevalence of hypertension among adults from 2003 to 2008; with the prevalence increasing with

age starting at age 40; and (b) total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceridesincreased with age, peaking from ages 40-59 years.

The panel discussants for the second session were Dr. Yolanda E. Oliveros, Director of the National Center for Disease Prevention and Control NCDPC Department of Health and Dr. Maria Luz Joanna B. Soria of the Manila Doctors Hospital.

Noting the alarming prevalence of lifestyle diseases, they underscored the importance of

13FNRI DigestF14

lifestyle intervention and political will rather than clinical intervention. They also suggested more clinical guidelines and statements on the use of health supplements. They said that the burden of disease has to be the burden of everybody. They are hopeful that with proper nutrition, regular exercise, smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption, everybody will become healthy if not healthier.

Dr. Zenaida V. Narciso, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Deputy Director, and Chief Science Research Specialist delivered the

14 FNRI Digest

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology, the

country’s lead agency in food and nutrition research and development, translates and disseminates research and development results into handy, user-friendly and information-packed nutrition tools and materials.

The FNRI-DOST’s vision is that through public and private partnership, food and nutrition information will be disseminated to a bigger number of target beneficiaries nationwide.

UNILEVER has been FNRI‘s partner for almost four years in printing the Menu Guide Calendar. The Robinsons Supermarket Corporation (RSC) likewise partnered with FNRI believing that through partnership, it will be able to educate and empower its customers on healthy living and proper nutrition.

The 2010 Menu Guide Calendar provides a year-round menu guide in meeting special needs of older persons and a recommended daily

meal plan in achieving a normal diet for the whole family. The Calendar also includes a year-round cycle menu for the whole family’s delectable meals and snacks. It also focuses on several of the key social, cultural and community aspects of elderly care.

FNRI partners with private companies to strengthen food and nutrition information dissemination

The 2010 FNRI-RSC Desk Calendar offers food and nutrition tips on healthy lifestyle focusing on nutritional benefits of various foods. An additional feature in the calendar is a set of standardized recipes using some ingredients that are low-fat, low sugar, low-calorie and low sodium.

These two calendars are

apparent proof of a strengthened partnership between the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology and the UNILEVER Philippines as well as with the Robinsons Supermarket Corporation and in the promotion of nutrition and wellness.

MIGGlorioso, Sr.RS, RUMD@

p

p

7th NNS Dissemination Forum..... from p. 13

synthesis of the forum. She emphasized on the action points in response to the 7th NNS data, programmatic issues related to the data presented, and survey methodological issues. She stressed on the need to focus seriously on affected areas and vulnerable age groups, revisiting nutrition programs in light of the NNS results and interventions on educating the public on lifestyle diseases.

Dr. Narciso gave the final challenge that the NNS results were presented ‘to put together our acts as our best contribution for improving the nutritional status of the population”.

Dr. Capanzana, in his closing message, said that the total improvement of Filipinos, particularly the status of micronutrient malnutrition and undernutrition, with the coexistence of lifestyle related diseases, reflects the need for more

comprehensive and proactive health system. He also stressed that there is a need to revisit policies and programs, drawing on the lessons of the past, considering the challenges and windows of opportunities.

Dr. Capanzana added that the 7th NNS would have not been in its form today, had it not for the support and cooperation of the many institutions and partners of the FNRI-DOST.

Human Resources in Focus

F 1615FNRI Digest

“Pilar”, a pillar of the FNRI Food LaboratoryEMAveña, SRS II, FSTD@

The mention of Pilar (Pilar Marfori Matibag) is almost synonymous to the Food

Composition Laboratory way back in its early days in Herran, Ermita, Manila. To former colleagues who drop by the Institute, Pilar will always be in the shortlist of the first persons to ask about.

Pilar finished her chemistry education at the Adamson University. She joined the FNRI (FNRC then) in the late 60’s as a food laboratory helper. From there she became a Science Research Analyst until her retirement.

To her credit are nine scientific publications which she co-authored mostly on food composition analysis. Her field of expertise is proximate analysis (moisture, protein, fat, and ash) which she diligently performed up to her last days at the office.

Pilar has shown very clear manifestations of her unquestioned and dedicated service to the Institute. She usually worked overtime in order to beat the deadline for customers. Her two Model Employee Awards and three Service Awards are testimonies of her meritorious service.

My first encounter with Pilar was in the 80’s. She is a petite, fair-skinned, fragile-looking but gracious lady who has the uncanny ability of making everybody else easily feel comfortable and at home.

But wait, beneath that calm facade is a very stern disciplinarian which is a carry-over of being the eldest in the family. If the rich and the famous have their governesses or butlers to look after the order in the house, then we have Pilar at the laboratory to do the job.

If you want to meet her ire, you need only to leave a workbench in disarray or an instrument not in use still plugged on. With that you’ll surely get the scare of your life. She is the most orderly and systematic person I ever had the chance to work with.

Good housekeeping is taught in school but not readily put to practice, as I have observed with my long stay in the laboratory. But with Pilar around, I acquired a robotic housekeeping attitude at least in the laboratory and to write a note and post it in a conspicuous place in order not to forget things.

More than a governess, she is a self-appointed safety marshall who makes it a point to go around before leaving, making sure everything is turned off, doors are locked, and so on. And if she has to leave early, she makes sure she has assigned somebody to do the job by placing reminders to respective tables.

We always get this feeling of security with Pilar around. If there is any food or pasalubong, we don’t worry for she will make sure that everybody gets his or her fair share, tucked up with labels in the refrigerator. What makes her

stand out from the rest of us is her assumed responsibility of ensuring we have a contingent supply of water and light, e.g. flashlights in cases of brownouts.

What could be a more fitting tribute to an unsung pillar of our food laboratory than to extol her virtues, so that everyone else may know her contribution to what our Institute stand for nowadays?

Most of our clients whose products are now in the market, local and foreign, owe her some sense of indebtedness. This is on account of the numerous proximate analyses necessary for getting a nod from the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD), or acceptance by importing countries. This is also true among users of the different revisions of the Philippine Food Composition Tables.

Pilar is a very good bwena mano especially to collection envelopes. We would always prod Pilar to give first, knowing how magnanimous she can be especially to those who are in real need.

Pilar is a “big loss”, not only to us at the Laboratory, but to the FNRI as well. She is one person who never compromised our Institute in its commitment for timely and quality services to our clients. For all the submitted food samples, she always volunteers to assist in the sample preparation, is often the first to finish the analysis, and takes the initiative to do the draft report of analysis.

Pilar’s contribution to the sustainability of accreditation to the ISO/IEC 17025 cannot be underestimated. Proximate analysis

MPalompo, SRS I, RUMD@

16 FNRI Digest

Library Acquisitions

Tanchoco, Celeste C.A Process Evaluation of a School-

based Intervention Program for Healthy Weight Management: Kineti-kids Program. Manila: UP-CPh, 2008233p.

THRA421.N95T152008

A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Public Health (Nutrition)

Magsadia, Clarita R.: Ramirez, Ma. Anna Rita M.: Velasco, Rowena E. and Dorado Julieta B.

FNTX374M51 R612009

Evaluation of Fortified Snack Products in Improving the Iron and Calcium Status of 24-78 Months Old Preschool Children. Bicutan, Taguig City: FNRI, 2009. 69p.

Kineti-kids: A Fitness Program for Schoolchildren (Nutrition Education Component). Bicutan, Taguig City, 2007. 140p.

FNTX341.3F66 K42ne200_

Kineti-kids Fitness Program-Nutrition Education Component/Educational Campaign/Healthy Lifestyle Promotion Elementary Pupils/Nutrition Education-Effectiveness

Kineti-kids: A Fitness Program for Schoolchildren-Terminal Report. Bicutan, Taguig City: FNRI, 2007 p.91.

FNTX341.3F66 K42tr200_

Funded by the Coca-Cola Export Corporation.

Pilar , a pillar of FNRI..... from p. 15

was the first inclusion to the scope of accreditation as it is up to now. Her exceptional and innate skill in analysis had been her tool in passing all proficiency test programs participated in by our laboratory.

We likewise owe a lot from this lady for all that she has contributed not only to the Institute but most especially to us who have worked with her, who learned simple but very useful and important lessons in life.

We will never realize how hard it is to say goodbye to someone we have seen everyday for over two decades, until that someone leaves. And this had to happen.

p

Using the FNRI’s National Nutrition Survey data and national nutrition surveys in other countries, the levels of consumption of fluids were presented.

In the years to come, the FNRI will continue fulfilling

its mandates to define the citizenry’s nutritional status, develop recommendations for the improvement of nutritional status, and disseminate research findings and recommendations.

FNRI staff presents ..... from p. 10

p

The 11th of October this year marked the sixty-five years of Pilar’s fruitful years and signaled the beginning of another chapter in her life.

To you Pilar, we know you’ve always yearned to have the much-needed respite from work. Lately, we overheard complaints of pains and fatigue as the long years of exposure to the laboratory hazards may already been taking its toll.

Thirty-eight years of laboratory work is something not to be taken lightly. At long last, your much awaited time has come – the opportunity to start your business and be your own boss. Relax, do not overwork, take your time and savor the sweet fruits of your hard work.

More power and Godspeed!