Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to improve the health and nutrition of indigenous peoples (IPs). The MOU includes the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP), a program funded by the World Bank which aims to reduce stunting and malnutrition among children, particularly those living in far-flung areas or IP communities.

According to Philippines News Agency, about 860,000 IPs across 13 regions of the country are expected to benefit from the PMNP. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the importance of reaching IP communities with culturally appropriate public services. He highlighted the need to ensure their health and access to proper nutrition, despite their remote locations.

Antenatal care is one of the services the IPs would receive. Under this, pregnant women and women in the reproductive age group will be given iron and folic acid. The program also aims to promote the health an
d nutrition of mothers and children and strengthen efforts in different communities.

NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las stated that nutrition is crucial for the long-term development of indigenous cultural communities. She noted that through this MOU, the rights of IPs and their communities will be supported, particularly their right to nutrition services tailored to their cultural needs.

The MOU prioritizes sensitivity to the IPs’ culture to ensure that nutrition services align with their beliefs, practices, customs, traditions, and institutions. It also underscores the importance of obtaining free, prior, and informed consent from the IP communities as part of their participation in the project.