In a vibrant celebration of nutrition and community spirit, the 4th Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) General Assembly brought together hundreds of BNS from cities and municipalities across Cavite. This year’s theme, “Balik-Tanaw sa Nutrisyon: Gintong Taon ng Pagdiriwang para sa ika-50 Anibersaryo ng Nutrisyon,” marked a significant milestone in the commitment to enhancing nutritional programs in the province.

The assembly commenced with an inspiring opening message from Dr. Nelson Soriano, who underscored the crucial role of BNS in promoting nutrition within their communities. His remarks set a positive tone for the gathering, celebrating the dedication of these health partners.

Governor Athena Bryana Tolentino who is staunch advocate of health and nutrition expressed her pride in the accomplishments of the BNS, reaffirming her administration’s commitment to improving public health, giving emphasis to the promotion of nutrition and mental health. Supportive messages were also delivered by Borad Members Irene Bencito, Kervy Salazar and Romel Enriquez. Trece Martires City Mayor Gemma Lubigan also graced the event together with the entire Sanggunaing Panlungsod headed by Vice Mayor Bobby Montehermoso, in full show of support as the host LGU. Their messages echoed their support and respect to the BNSs and highlighted the collaborative spirit of the assembly.

Keynote speaker Lourdes B. Orongan, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator from the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Calabarzon shared her insights on the multi-faceted role of BNSs in ensuring that nutrition and nutrition-related programs are cascaded down and implemented in communities. She also shared how the government is finding ways to somehow honor their hard work and dedication through incentives, trainings and the granting of second grade Civil Service eligibility, to qualified BNS.

Mrs. Teresita Dinglasan, a senior BNS from General Emilio Aguinaldo, inspired attendees with her story retelling the 40 years of dedicated service in the field as she recounted her experiences and her passion to serve.

The assembly also featured exciting competitions that showcased the talents and creativity of the BNS through the BNS Got Talent, Cheering Competition, and BNS Muse.

For the BNS Got Talent, special awards were as follows: Best Videography to Silang; Most Entertaining and Best in Costume award for Tagaytay City; and People’s Choice Award to Trece Martires City.

BNS Got Talent Major Awards included: Fourth Runner-Up to Tanza; Third Runner-Up for Dasmariñas City; Second Runner-Up for Tagaytay City; First Runner-Up for Imus City; and, the Grand Champion award which was bagged by Trece Martires City.

The Cheering Competition Results were as follows: 2nd Runner up – Trece Martires City; 1st Runner up – Tanza; and Champion – City of Bacoor.

For the BNS Muse, special awards were as follows: Crowd Favorite – Ms. Cita Nueva of Trece Martires City; Retro Queen Award – Ms. Cristirose Raagas from the City of Bacoor; and Advocacy Award to Ms. Nelly A. Ocampo of the City of Imus. The Major Awards were given to the 2nd runner up – Guillerma Cabuhat of Tanza, 1st runner up – Ms. Irene S. Isaac of Silang, and the BB. BNS 2024 crown was won by Ms. Cristirose B. Raagas from the City of Bacoor.

In closing, Ms. Helen Peñalba, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer extended her heartfelt gratitude to all the partners who have made the event possible and to all the BNS for always giving their full cooperation and dedication to nutrition service.

The assembly highlighted the power of collaboration and the importance of nutrition in fostering healthier communities. Participants were left with renewed energy and commitment to continue their vital work in promoting health and nutrition across Cavite.