On October 9, 2024, the Liveable Cities Philippines hosted an impactful event focusing on Food Security and (Mal)nutrition. The event brought together leaders in agriculture, nutrition, and community development, with insightful contributions from various resource speakers. Among them was East-West Seed Foundation's Executive Director, Ms. Ma. Elena P. van Tooren, who spoke on improving food security and nutrition through shortening the vegetable supply chain.
The East-West Seed Foundation's mission is to increase appreciation, availability, and consumption through sharing of knowledge on vegetable production and health benefits. Through community-based programs like VeggiEskwela, Gulayamanan and VeggieSapat, EWSF helps communities across the Philippines secure their food sources and improve family nutrition.
Other Key Speakers at the Event
Other resource speakers highlighted complementary strategies aimed at addressing food security and malnutrition:
Mr. John Echauz, Convenor and Chairman of the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Business Network Philippines, emphasized the role of innovative solutions in advancing the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition, working toward a well-nourished country.
Mr. Henry Sison, Chief Farming Officer of Agro-Digital PH, introduced a platform that links small-scale farmers directly to markets, ensuring they can thrive by reaching broader audiences and delivering quality produce.
Mr. Jomar Fleras, Executive Director of Rise Against Hunger Philippines, discussed global partnerships that combat hunger by connecting communities with vital resources through the support of international NGOs and health organizations.
Ms. Celerina Amores, Senior Director for Corporate Citizenship and Volunteerism at the Ayala Foundation Inc., highlighted efforts in the Planting for Productivity (P4P) and Food for Work programs, which strengthen regional food security through partnerships with local stakeholders.
Ms. Jirah Asa Sideco, Nutrition Program Coordinator of Quezon City, presented the city’s pioneering Calories Labeling Policy, which has positioned Quezon City as a leader in Southeast Asia for innovative nutrition initiatives.
Collaborative Action Toward a Food-Secure Future
The event reinforced the need for multi-sectoral collaboration to address the challenges of food security and malnutrition. Through collective efforts, the Liveable Cities Lab on Food Security and (Mal)nutrition highlighted how leaders in agriculture, nutrition, and community development are creating meaningful change. Their contributions will continue to stand out as a model for empowering the community and promoting sustainable food systems in the Philippines, complementing the broader initiatives, and all are working together to create a healthier, more resilient Philippines.
Comments