By Nimfa Estrellado Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace America (Photo from Mayor Filipina Grace R. America/FACEBOOK) INFANTA, Quezon - This to...
 |
| Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace America (Photo from Mayor Filipina Grace R. America/FACEBOOK) |
INFANTA, Quezon - This town's local government has begun planning for the implementation of a new policy that will require all public institutions to source their food supplies from local farmers and producers.
Following a recent meeting with ImagineLaw, Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace America has taken the lead in this regard, and plans to develop a Healthy Public Food Procurement Policy (HPFPP) to improve the general health and nutrition of its constituents.
The mayor said that the HPFPP will not only benefit the health of the people, but also boost the local economy by promoting the consumption of locally grown produce.
Members of the Local Nutrition Committee and other concerned local government offices attended the aforementioned meeting to discuss the implementation of these measures and gather community feedback. They hope that by collaborating, they will be able to create a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone in the area especially for those who are most vulnerable to malnutrition and other health issues.
"The HPFPP will prioritize the procurement of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables over processed and unhealthy options. The policy will also aim to reduce food waste by encouraging the use of composting and food donation programs." America said.
She hopes that this policy will serve as a model for other municipalities to follow in promoting healthy and sustainable food practices.
"The HPFPP will work with local farmers and producers to ensure fair and equitable pricing for their products, further supporting the local economy. By prioritizing healthy and sustainable food options, the policy also aims to improve overall community health and well-being." she added.
According to the mayor, HPFPP aims to have a town with healthy and safe food standards. It is also promoted as a way for all citizens to avoid hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and other noncommunicable diseases.
This is also to ensure that the community has access to nutritious and safe food. The policy will place a premium on sourcing from local farmers and fishermen, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and bolstering the local economy.
It will also establish food safety and quality standards and provide education on healthy eating habits, to improve the community's overall health and well-being.
Furthermore, activities related to their partnership with ImagineLaw are scheduled to be completed in the coming days so that this initiative can begin as soon as possible.
ImagineLaw is a public law organization that advocates for programs that benefit Filipinos, particularly those in marginalized communities. Through the HPFPP, ImagineLaw hopes to address the issue of food insecurity and promote access to nutritious food options for all Filipinos, regardless of their socio-economic status.
ImagineLaw will assist in the legal aspects of implementing the policy, ensuring that it complies with all relevant regulations and laws. This partnership will also help to address any potential challenges that may arise during the implementation process.
Meanwhile, the Quezon City Local Government Unit was the first to implement the policy , which aims to promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the community.
According to the executive order signed by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte in 2021, all city government offices, departments, institutions, and task forces are required to ensure that all food and food supplies purchased by the LGU for its projects and programs comply with QC Nutrition Standards.
No comments