Context and Importance of Food Fortification
- Micronutrient deficiencies are a persistent public health issue in the Philippines, adversely affecting individuals and society.
- Food fortification is identified as a cost-effective and long-term strategy to address micronutrient malnutrition, especially targeting vulnerable populations such as mothers and young children.
Legal Foundations for Food Fortification
- Republic Act No. 8172 (ASIN Law) mandates compulsory iodine fortification of salt.
- Republic Act No. 8976 (Food Fortification Law) mandates the fortification of rice with iron, flour and oil with vitamin A and iron, and sugar with vitamin A.
- These laws aim to ensure a steady supply of essential micronutrients to communities.
Role of the Food Industry and Other Laws
- The food industry has committed to ensure availability and affordability of fortified food products nationwide.
- Food fortification is also a component of the Early Childhood Care and Development Act (RA 8980) to improve basic health, nutrition, and education services.
- The Local Government Code (RA 7160) assigns local government units (LGUs) responsibility for health services, including promotion, regulation, and monitoring with DOH assistance.
Responsibilities of the Department of Health
- Formulate and disseminate guidelines and procedures for implementing the National Food Fortification Day.
- Provide technical assistance to LGUs.
- Conduct national and regional advocacy and social mobilization activities.
- Supply logistics and promotional materials.
- Monitor local-level activities related to the observance.
Responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture
- Issue and disseminate memorandum circulars to DA offices and related agencies (National Food Authority, Coconut Authority, Sugar Regulatory Administration, National Nutrition Council) involved in enforcing RA 8976 and RA 8172.
Responsibilities of the Department of the Interior and Local Government
- Issue memorandum circulars to all local chief executives (mayors, governors, barangay captains) to ensure efficient and effective national observance of the Food Fortification Day.
Responsibilities of the Department of Education
- Issue memorandum circulars to all public and private primary and secondary schools.
- Mobilize teachers and school health officials to promote Food Fortification Day among students, parents, and communities.
Responsibilities of the Department of Trade and Industry
- Issue memorandum circulars to all field offices.
- Ensure availability and affordability of fortified staple food products in the market nationwide.
Responsibilities of the Department of Social Welfare and Development
- Issue memorandum circulars to all field offices and day care centers.
- Promote and mobilize social support for Food Fortification Day through campaigns and other appropriate means.
Role of Non-Government Organizations, Civil Society, and Academe
- Encouraged to participate in promotional campaigns, social mobilization, and other activities to support the observance of National Food Fortification Day.
Role of Local Government Units through Council Leagues
- Barangay captains, councilors, mayors, governors, and other officials encouraged to contribute through promotional efforts and by mobilizing health personnel.
- Required to monitor and submit reports on Food Fortification Day activities within their jurisdictions.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order took effect immediately upon signing on October 29, 2004.