Bangsamoro parliament tackles malnutrition, population growth

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Bangsamoro Parliament’s Rules Committee has conducted public consultations to discuss two proposed bills, 55 and 110, which aim to tackle the critical issues of malnutrition and population development within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Deputy Speaker Laisa Masuhud Alamia presided over two important round table discussions (RTDs) held by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament on Tuesday.

The two proposed bills are designed to address child malnutrition and population management challenges in BARMM.

The RTDs, organized by the Committee on Rules and Subcommittee chair MP Kadil Sinolinding Jr., focused on Parliament Bill 55, the “Bangsamoro Nutrition Act of 2022,” and Parliament Bill 110, the “Bangsamoro Commission on Population and Development Act of 2022.”

Ministry of Health Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. highlighted the alarming statistics of malnutrition in Lanao del Sur, where nearly 27 percent of children under five are affected.

Alamia stated, “These roundtable discussions are vital in ensuring that our legislative measures are responsive to the needs and priorities of the Bangsamoro people.”

She emphasized, “The insights gathered from these discussions will help us craft effective policies that address the interconnected challenges of nutrition and population development in the region.”

The morning session focused on Parliament Bill 55, which proposes the establishment of the Bangsamoro Nutrition Council to coordinate and implement nutrition programs throughout the region.

Participants discussed the current nutrition challenges in the area, the potential impact of the bill, and strategies for effective collaboration among stakeholders.

The afternoon session centered on Parliament Bill 110, which aims to create the Bangsamoro Commission on Population and Development.

Discussions explored the region’s population and development dynamics, the proposed commission’s mandate and functions, and the need for incorporating national and global standards into regional development plans.

During the discussions, Member of Parliament Randolph Parcasio stressed the importance of comprehensive nutrition programs, calling for the National Nutrition Council’s support to ensure the swift passage of the bill.

Dr. Alinader Minalang, the provincial health officer of Lanao del Sur, suggested incorporating Islamic teachings into public health and nutrition campaigns to promote healthy eating practices across the region.

Minalang also called for enhanced support for local governments to ensure the successful implementation of nutrition programs. Participants emphasized the need for better funding, monitoring, and public awareness to guarantee the success of the bills.