07/08/2026
The Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) Regional Project Management Office (RPMO), headed by Frances Anhonette Paglinawan, together with Ms. Grace Love Ano, Dr. Cloe Mae Bama, Evita Jungao, and the Regional Supportive Supervision Team led by Airish May Maulanin (SEED), accompanied by John Harold Carpe from UP Los Baños (UPLB), Martin Tuprio (SEED), Alana B. Pala, DMO IV from the Provincial Department of Health Office assigned to the Municipality of Matungao, and Gail Dela Rita, Consultant from Human Capital Asia, successfully conducted the Integrated Supportive Supervision and Mentoring (ISSM) at the Matungao Rural Health Unit of the LGU Matungao on August 5–6, 2026.
The Integrated Supportive Supervision and Mentoring (ISSM) is a key strategy of the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project that aims to strengthen the implementation of nutrition interventions through coaching, mentoring, technical assistance, and collaborative problem-solving among implementers at the barangay and municipal levels. The activity focuses on assessing program implementation, validating identified gaps, building the capacities of implementers, and developing evidence-based action plans to improve the quality and effectiveness of nutrition service delivery. This year's ISSM particularly emphasized strengthening the Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Plan of Action, recognizing its critical role in influencing positive nutrition practices and improving health outcomes within communities.
As part of the activity, Barangay Batangan was selected as the priority area due to the implementation gaps identified during previous assessments. On the morning of August 5, 2026, the ISSM team visited the barangay together with Evan Jhon Miscala, Municipal Nutrition Action Officer; Trisha Kaye Butlay, Nutritionist-Dietitian from the Department of Health; Gesser Sugapong, Nurse II assigned to Barangay Batangan; Normida Salem, Midwife II; Nurse Jennylyn Sarip; Nurse Lorraine Pelarion; Midwife Maria Jean Omonggos; Glaiza Racman, Health Education and Promotion Officer; and Ayra Acoon, Technical Manager, along with other members of the municipal nutrition implementation team.
During the visit, the team conducted supportive supervision and mentoring with the Barangay Nutrition Committee (BNC) and Community Volunteer Workers (CVWs) to validate existing challenges, identify operational gaps, and collaboratively formulate practical and sustainable solutions to improve the delivery of nutrition services at the community level.
The team then proceeded to the Rhu Matungao, where they conducted a mentoring session with the RHU staff headed by Aminodin D. Pamanay, MD, MPH, Municipal Health Officer. Particular attention was given to the assigned barangay monitors responsible for supervising and supporting the Community Volunteer Workers. During the discussions, the RPMO and ISSM team reviewed the issues identified during the barangay visit, provided technical guidance, and worked with the RHU staff in developing enhanced action plans to address the identified gaps and strengthen monitoring and implementation mechanisms.
On August 6, 2026, the ISSM concluded with a feedbacking session attended by the Municipal Nutrition Committee (MNC), chaired by the Jaber M. Azis, MD, Local Chief Executive. The meeting presented the findings from both the barangay and RHU assessments, highlighted the priority gaps requiring immediate intervention, and discussed the corresponding recommendations and action plans that require support from the municipal government to ensure effective implementation.
During the meeting, the Mayor Jaber M. Azis, MD reaffirmed the Municipality's full commitment to strengthening nutrition governance and ensuring that the necessary resources, policies, and support systems are provided to address the identified gaps. The Municipal Nutrition Committee likewise expressed its collective commitment to sustaining collaborative efforts toward achieving better nutrition outcomes for every Matungaoan.
The successful conduct of the ISSM reflects the strong partnership among the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project, the Department of Health, UNICEF partner organizations, provincial and municipal stakeholders, and the Local Government Unit of Matungao. With unified leadership and shared commitment, the LGU Matungao continues to champion responsive, evidence-based, and people-centered nutrition programs that empower communities, strengthen local health systems, and ensure that every child, mother, and family has access to quality nutrition and health services. Together, we move closer to our vision of a healthier, well-nourished, and more Progressive Matungao.
