Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 608)
The primary objective is to ensure the appropriate provision of quality micronutrient supplementation (MS) in the Philippines to support the reduction of underfive and maternal deaths and address micronutrient needs of other population groups by guiding health workers, promoting compliance, and generating support among stakeholders.
The policy recommends micronutrient supplementation specifically for children aged 0-59 months, pregnant and lactating women, and non-pregnant and non-lactating women of reproductive age (15-49 years old).
The rights-based approach is anchored on the Philippine Constitution, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
Micronutrient supplementation shall be adopted when: population groups have micronutrient deficiency prevalence at a level of public health importance; their micronutrient needs cannot be met through regular diet and fortified foods; MS is proven efficacious and safe; and administration has significant health effects on individuals at various life stages and on future generations.
The Order applies to all national, regional and local government offices, public and private health facilities, NGOs, development partners, and other stakeholders involved in the delivery and provision of micronutrient supplementation nationwide.
'Micronutrient supplementation' is a short-term intervention intended to correct high levels of micronutrient deficiencies by providing large doses of micronutrients immediately until sustainable food-based approaches such as food fortification and diet diversification are in place and effective.
Key principles include: Rights-Based Approach, Systems Approach, Life-Cycle Based Intervention, Equity, Complementation of Interventions, Evidence-Based Interventions and Approaches, and Integrated Service Delivery.
The NCDPC is responsible for overall execution, dissemination of policy, coordination and technical input on management systems, fund allocation for supplements, procurement coordination, monitoring LGU compliance, policy review and organization of expert panels.
LGUs are tasked to orient and train health workers, advocate adoption of policies, allocate resources, manage MS stock, ensure reporting, and integrate MS provision through health facilities and coordination with other local offices.
Integration ensures efficient delivery of MS packages through established health service delivery channels, improves coverage especially in vulnerable groups, and facilitates continuity of care and appropriate follow-up.
Priority is given during emergencies, in areas endemic with malaria and schistosomiasis, and for individuals clinically diagnosed with micronutrient deficiencies such as xerophthalmia.
Deworming, environmental sanitation, healthy lifestyle promotion, immunization, diet diversification, and food fortification are complementary interventions.
The Order mandates sustained and secured financing through fund allocation by DOH and LGUs, procurement planning by DOH Procurement Service, and continuous availability of supplies at local levels.
Monitoring and evaluation shall be improved by expanding coverage, integrating MS into regular supervision, and including MS intervention review in the Program Implementation Review (PIR).
Administrative Order No. 19, s. 2003 and any other inconsistent orders or issuances are rescinded, making this Revised Policy the prevailing directive on micronutrient supplementation.