CEBU City officially launched the 51st Nutrition Month celebration at the Plaza Sugbo Grounds on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, to strengthen nutrition programs and raise public awareness on proper nutrition among Cebuanos.
Spearheaded by the Cebu City Nutrition Office, the event was led by Councilor Nyza Archival on behalf of Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival.
Councilor Archival emphasized the City Government’s commitment to prioritizing food security and sustainability under the current administration.
“This is not just about feeding programs. Proper nutrition also means ensuring food availability and food security in our communities,” said Fel August Aquino, Nutrition Officer II of the Cebu City Nutrition Office, clarifying that the advocacy goes beyond food distribution and focuses on educating the public on healthy practices and sustainable nutrition.
The launch featured colorful booths and lively performances, entertaining the crowd to promote the importance of healthy eating habits.
Among the participants were daycare workers, barangay health workers, city nutrition scholars, senior citizens, Sangguniang Kabataan members, and barangay nutrition committees from 80 barangays across Cebu City.
Activities included an urban gardening lecture, discussions on composting, and a talk on food security, along with a Nutri Dance Contest.
Organizers had initially planned a Nutri Cooking Competition but are considering a cooking demonstration instead to encourage broader participation, especially among the youth.
The celebration began with a parade around Plaza Sugbo, followed by a nutrition pledge and prayer led by participants, and a “Little Prince and Princess” segment to engage children in nutrition advocacy.
The Cebu City Nutrition Office clarified that the Nutrition Month celebration is not merely a competition but an advocacy initiative designed to educate the community on proper nutrition, urban gardening, and food sustainability as key measures to address health and food security challenges in the city.
The City Government continues to support community-based food programs and nutrition initiatives aligned with Nutrition Month’s goals, seeking to build a healthier and food-secure Cebu City for all. (Hilary Natalie Berongoy, HNU intern/John Mart Mabalhin, VSU intern)