Lingayen – Governor Amado “Pogi” I. Espino, III recognized the indispensable roles of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) and Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in assuring healthy communities.
“Be patient in dispensing your duties,” Governor Espino told hundreds of BNSs and BHWs who attended the 6th Regional Barangay Nutrition Scholars held at the Sison Auditorium on September 16.
Citing the transformation his predecessor, former governor and now 5th district Representative Amado T. Espino, Jr. initiated to upgrade health care services in Pangasinan in his 9-year stint as provincial chief executive, Gov. Espino vowed that his administration will strengthen further the health care development thrust of the provincial government.
Expressing concern to the BNSs and BHWs, the provincial chief executive said he is seeking the support of barangay captains to bat for further recognition to workers in barangays.
“Kayang kaya natin if we help each other in taking care of the health concerns of our constituents in barangays,” Governor Espino said.
The young Espino likewise bared that in his 16 years of public service, serving as councilor then mayor of Bautista town who served for three terms, and was elected barangay captain who became the Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial President, he has seen the realities in serving barangays.
Meanwhile, Nutrition Program Coordinator Ma. Eileen Blanco of National Nutrition Council Region 1 noted the gathering as a respite from the work of BNSs and BHWs in barangays to focus on updates on health and nutrition that they will later share in their respective communities.
“This activity is a recognition of your efforts. No amount of money will pay your efforts in keeping your constituents healthy,” Blanco said.
The BNS congress which includes talks on Pediatric Health and Nutrition, 1st 1,000 Days of Baby, Pinggang Pinoy and Basic Financial Wellness Program was also attended by Provincial Health Officer Ma. Anna Teresa De Guzman and Assistant PHO Cielo Almoite, Nutrition Program Manager Analiza Miranda and Pangasinan BNS Federation President Carmelita Cruz.
Officers of the La Union, Pangasinan and Ilocos BNS Federation led by Nory Estoesta were also present during the activity which bannered the theme, “LUPang Ilocos BNS: “Kaakibat at maaasahan sa serbisyong pang-nutrisyon tungo sa malusog na kinabukasan.”