KCFI, together with the National Nutrition Council, is dedicated to nurturing a healthier and well-nourished generationJuly is National Nutrition Month, a fitting time to raise awareness about the critical role of nutrition in education and a child’s holistic development. This year marks the 50th Nutrition Month, observed since 1974 by virtue of Presidential Decree 491 or the Nutrition Act of the Philippines.

Nutrition, along with early learning stimulation, health, social protection and responsive caregiving, is a main pillar of the nurturing care framework for early childhood development. As a firm believer that food is medicine, I am passionate about emphasizing the importance of nutrition and believe that early learning stimulation and responsive caregiving are equally important as nutrition and health.

This topic resonates deeply with me, not only because of its significance but also because July is the month of my birthday. Reflecting on personal milestones often reminds me of the broader journey we share in fostering a healthier, betternourished and better-educated generation.

As a member of the standing Committee for Early Childhood Development of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, I have had the privilege to listen to various agencies in charge of nutrition for young children. My top three reasons nutrition remains a significant challenge in the Philippines include:

1. Poor implementation of the government master plan and lack of coordination among agencies.
   • There is a need for a comprehensive government master plan that outlines clear and coordinated strategies for addressing malnutrition. Without a unified plan, efforts remain fragmented and less effective.
2. Lack of understanding and communication on the importance of good nutrition and the consequences of malnutrition to brain architecture of children.
   • There is a need for more comprehensive education and awareness programs about the importance of nutrition. Cultural beliefs and practices sometimes hinder the adoption of healthy eating habits, and misinformation about nutrition can persist.
3. Lack of knowledge and access to healthy affordable choices.
   • Many families live below the poverty line, making it difficult for them to afford or even consider healthier and more nutritious food. This economic challenge is exacerbated by rising food prices and inefficient agricultural practices.

Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) is doing its part to address these issues. We have developed various educational videos for parents, educators and children.

Our show, “I Love You 1000: Batang #Laking1000,” developed in partnership with the National Nutrition Council and the Department of Health (DOH), focuses on the first 1,000 days of a child’s life. This period, often referred to as the “golden window of opportunity,” is crucial for a child’s development. The series covers various topics, including breastfeeding, proper nutrition, immunization and early childhood stimulation.

In addition, Knowledge Channel has in its library titles with related topics. These are “Dok Ricky, Pedia” by ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. and “Payong K-Lusugan,” a collaboration with USAID, DOH and FHI 360. These shows are seen on the Knowledge Channel, also available on YouTube and our offline platforms, Knowledge Channel TV (KC TV) and Knowledge Channel Portable Media Library (KC PML). We also created a training video discussing nutrition and health for 0- to 4.11- year-old children, which can be watched through Health and Nutrition for Children (https://tinyurl.com/kmym44s8).

There is a strong connection between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, highlighting how gut health influences cognitive function. When children eat meals appropriate for their development, they perform better academically compared with those who do not. This is a recurring theme in our educational materials.

KCFI’s commitment to nutrition, health and holistic development goes beyond creating video lessons. We provide Knowledge Channel’s Child Advancement and Responsive Education or K-CARE training program. This is designed for child development workers/ teachers (CDW/Ts), barangay workers, nutrition scholars, parents and caregivers. It includes interactive modules on various aspects of early childhood, two of which are focused on nutrition and health.

We invite you to join us in our mission to support nutrition, early education and the holistic development of young children. Your contributions can help us develop more video lessons, train CDW/Ts, parents and other care providers, and provide KC TVs and KC PMLs to child development centers/schools and communities. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Filipino children. Donate to the Knowledge Channel through BPI Acct. No. 0201-0409-14. Learn more about us on our official website: knowledgechannel.org. Please email a copy of your deposit slip to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for recording purposes.

(Story/Photos by:Rina Lopez)