In a collaborative effort to support children’s overall well-being, the HAPIsabela Mobile Library teamed up with the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) Basilan for the “Empowering Kids through Nutrition and Hygiene Project,” held on May 8 in Barangay Aguada.
A total of 30 children benefited from the program, which offered not only access to quality reading materials but also engaging sessions on personal hygiene and environmental cleanliness. GAD Staff Rhonaleen Natividad-Sarael delivered a lecture on basic hygiene, while Mobile Library staff Jham-Jham Kalbi facilitated a session on maintaining cleanliness at home and in one’s surroundings.
Spearheaded through the initiative of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, and supported by City Information Officer and concurrent GAD Focal Person Mendry-Ann Lim, the project underscores the local government’s commitment to inclusive education, health, and literacy development.
This activity also served as a milestone for Ambassador-level Girl Scout Jaecajoy Mandawe, who is pursuing the Chief Girl Scout Medal through her Nutrition and Hygiene community project.
The positive impact of the initiative has been evident in improving children’s nutritional status. Based on assessments from Barangay Aguada, cases of malnutrition and stunting have decreased by 15% by the project’s fifth session, a promising indicator of community progress.
To complement the educational efforts, the HAPIsabela Mobile Kitchen, headed by City Nutrition Officer Jesielyn O. Puno, served nutritious arroz caldo to the children—further reinforcing the importance of proper nutrition in child development.
By combining books, health education, and community care, the partnership between GSP-Basilan and the HAPIsabela Mobile Library continues to bring hope, growth, and learning opportunities to young Isabeleños.
The “Empowering Kids through Nutrition and Hygiene” project stands as a testament to the power of collective action in nurturing children’s health and education—ensuring every child, regardless of background, is given the opportunity to thrive.(Words by R. Natividad-Sarael, GAD Unit/ Photos by A. Puti, IsaTV)
