In a unified effort to combat malnutrition and reduce food waste, the National Nutrition Council IX, R9 SUN CSO Network (Kids Who Farm), and the City Government of Isabela came together for the regional launch of the R9 Gardenator in line with the 2024 National Nutrition Month Celebration. The event took place at the Coast Guard Sub-Station in Barangay Diki on July 22.
The program commenced with a presentation by NO III Elton Pelegrino, who outlined the R9 Gardenator’s potential impact. Emphasizing community engagement, Pelegrino encouraged collective action in addressing local nutritional needs and environmental concerns. NNC IX has aptly named this endeavor “R9 Gardenator: A Drum that Beats a Sound of Hope Against Malnutrition,” reflecting its transformative potential.
R9 SUN CSO Network Convenor and Co-Founder of Kids Who Farm, Moncini Hinay, then elaborated on the Food Loop Project. This project seeks to close the loop between food production and waste management through the Gardenator. It promotes efficient food production while converting organic waste into valuable compost for fertilizer, thereby enhancing food security and sustainability in the region.
In her message, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman expressed gratitude to Barangay Diki for their hospitality and emphasized the initiative’s role in improving livelihoods and preserving the environment. Her message underscored the project’s significance in fostering a healthier and more resilient community.
Meanwhile, founder of Kids Who Farm Raaina Hinay, delivered an inspirational message to the youth, emphasizing the educational aspects of the initiative. She highlighted efforts aimed at empowering local farmers with sustainable farming practices. By addressing food insecurity and promoting nutritional education, the project strives to ensure access to wholesome food for all residents.
To kick-start implementation, 61 Gardenators were distributed among residents of Barangay Diki, marking a tangible step towards enhancing local food self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship.
Notable attendees included City Administrator Pedrito Eisma, Agricultural Technologist Jonathan Pedillon, BLGU-Diki led by Punong Barangay Nihma Deman, SK Chair Sultan Ramil Mahalail, and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS). (Words by E. Banding/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
