UIC's CHEFS Forges Community Ties: Adopts Mother Assumpta Day Care Center

In a noteworthy endeavor for the Academic Year 2023-2024, the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS) at the University of the Immaculate Conception, Davao City, has formally embraced a transformative initiative. The focal point of this community-centric effort is the recent adoption of Mother Assumpta Day Care Center in Barangay 8-A, Davao City, through the establishment of an adopt-a-school program. On August 30, 2023, a pivotal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony unfolded at the UIC Auditorium, Father Selga Campus, marking a significant moment for both institutions.

The active participation of key CHEFS, Community Development Service, and adopted community stakeholders, with the CHEFS students as witnesses, characterized the MOA signing event. Dr. Nelca Stephany U. Amatong, the CHEFS Dean, Dr. Corazon Umblero, CDS Director, and Ms. Hannah Pareja, HRIM/TM CDS Coordinator, were among those present. Additionally, CHEFS faculty members attended, alongside external contributors from the adopted community, Ms. Golosinda, President of Nagkahiusang Pamilya Alang sa Kalambuan (NAPAKA), and Ms. Anita Duran, a teacher from Mother Assumpta Day Care Center. This collaboration signifies a commitment to strengthening community bonds and contributing to the holistic development of preschool children.

The formal commencement of the collaborative partnership underlines a shared commitment to growth and development. The CHEFS community is poised to play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive environment for both the academic community and the day care center. The active engagement of CHEFS faculty members emphasizes the significance of this initiative and its potential impact on the local community.

Aligned with the University's broader commitment to poverty alleviation and reduction, the adoption of Mother Assumpta Day Care Center is a tangible expression of UIC's dedication to holistic community development and underscores the institution's unwavering commitment to uplifting the underprivileged. This proactive involvement transcends traditional academic boundaries, showcasing UIC's commitment to social responsibility and community impact, particularly in addressing societal challenges related to poverty. Through this initiative, UIC exemplifies its role as a catalyst for positive change in the local community, fostering a holistic approach to education and social betterment.

As CHEFS takes deliberate steps toward community engagement, the adoption of Mother Assumpta Day Care Center becomes a beacon of proactive involvement in community development. This initiative sets a precedent for meaningful collaborations that contribute to the well-being of local communities, exemplifying the University's dedication to fostering lasting connections and making a positive impact on the lives of those embraced by this heartwarming endeavor. The journey has just begun, and the CHEFS community looks forward to the transformative impact it will have on the local community.

"Sustaining the Nutritional Well-being of Pre-School Aged Children: A PAN-Theotokos Initiative"

By: Raphael Jules A. Angon

In a manifestation of commitment to better community health, the Philippine Association of Nutrition—Theotokos Chapter (PAN-Theotokos) launched the PAN-Pamayanan Project 2023. This endeavor mainly focuses on the nutritional well-being of preschool-aged children enrolled at Mother Assumpta Day Care Center, Upper Madapo, Barangay 5-A, Davao City. Recognizing the importance of nutrition in children’s early years, PAN-theotokos planned a series of activities that included Nutritional Assessment, Nutrition Counseling, and Nutrition Education. 

The project commenced with a Nutritional Assessment on October 05, 2023. It revealed 10 cases of malnutrition, leading to the urgency of an appropriate intervention. The results prompted PAN-Theotokos' team of 3rd-year Nutrition and Dietetics Students to conduct a Nutrition Counseling session on October 26, 2023. In this session, students shared nutrition knowledge and skills with parents to help them make informed choices about their children’s food consumption. 

To solidify parents’ understanding regarding proper nutrition for preschool-aged children, a comprehensive Nutrition Education session was conducted on November 29, 2023. The session unveiled several nutritional problems faced by preschoolers. Also, students gave practical tips on choosing and preparing nutritious meals. Parents were also informed of general nutritional guidelines through the 10 Kumainments of the National Nutrition Council. 

A child’s health is mainly influenced by its household and environment. With that, PAN-Theotokos focuses on collaborating with parents and empowering them to make quality food choices. This approach to addressing nutritional problems in preschoolers not only ensures the improvement of the current nutritional status of children, but also affects their long-term well-being. These efforts are set to secure a healthier future for the children.

"Reflecting on PAN-Kaalaman 2023's Success: A Recap of Empowered Learning"

By: Maria Kwynceza Camocamo

The echoes of PAN-Kaalaman 2023, a peer tutoring initiative spearheaded by our accomplished 3rd Year ND students, can still be heard within the walls of the ND/HRIM/TM building's Rooms 305 and 306. This significant event, which took place on October 21 & 25, 2023, showed the transformative power of collaborative learning and communal support.

PAN-Kaalaman's main goal was to bridge educational gaps and improve not only academic prowess but also the interpersonal and communication skills of both tutees and tutors. The event, which focused on Basic Nutrition, Meal Planning using the Kardex and the use of FCT tables, catered to the needs of both 2nd and 3rd Year Nutrition and Dietetics students.

The four key objectives of PAN-Kaalaman, which guided the event, were clearly met:

• PAN-Kaalaman addressed specific gaps in nutrition-related education by providing comprehensive insights into Basic Nutrition and FCT tables.

• It created a platform for robust peer interaction, where conversations and mutual learning among Nutrition and Dietetics students thrived.

• Immediate Academic Support for Long-Term Well-Being: The event created a culture of immediate academic support with the goal of contributing to students' long-term well-being beyond the event's duration.

• Fostering Community Involvement and Support: PAN-Kaalaman encouraged participants to feel a sense of belonging and camaraderie, emphasizing community involvement and providing valuable, insightful experiences for all involved.

The atmosphere was charged with intellectual fervor and a shared quest for knowledge from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. It wasn't just about learning; it was also about bonding and creating a supportive environment.

When we look back on PAN-Kaalaman, we see that its impact extended far beyond the confines of that day. It's a legacy that resonates throughout our academic community, a testament to our students' dedication, the collaborative spirit fostered, and the enduring support within our community.

"Nutrition and Care in Action: PAN - Theotokos Leads Health Initiative at Zonta Village with PharmChem CARES and Collaborators"

By: Monica Bea P. Huertas

The academic club of the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, the Philippine Association of Nutrition-Theotokos Chapter, was invited by PharmChem CARES of the College of Pharmacy and Chemistry to participate in their Medical Mission Phase 2: PHARnambayayong para sa kauswagan sa CHEMunidad on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Zonta Village, Purok 5-A, Tibungco, Davao City. Collaborating with PAN-Theotokos were the Community Development Service of the University of the Immaculate Conception, Pharmakon, Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants Club from the College of Accounting and Business Education, and Clinical Pharmacy Student Volunteers.

The event featured seven officers from PAN-Theotokos, namely Raphael Jules A. Angon, Maria Kwynceza Camocamo, Mythosellah Jay C. Gultian, Monica Bea P. Huertas, Kyle Juone Marante, Ivan Christian G. Moring, and Renee Shannen Silos, accompanied by a faculty member from the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies, Mr. Karl Erik John Racho. 

PAN-Theotokos spearheaded a nutritional assessment and feeding program for over 100 children in Zonta Village. Before the nutritional assessment, the officers assisted in cooking and preparing pancit bihon and white bread for the children. During the nutritional assessment, Ms. Gultian and Ms. Silos managed the registration, confirming the names and ages of the children. Meanwhile, Mr. Moring and Mr. Marante meticulously weighed the children, and Mr. Angon and Ms. Huertas measured their heights. At the final station, Ms. Camocamo distributed the packed meals to the children, who completed the nutritional assessment.

The collaboration with PharmChem CARES was deemed a success, with the joint initiative aiming to promote the health and well-being of the University’s adopted community. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with PAN-Theotokos’ mission of ‘Fulfilling your passion and Nurturing your Future.’

"Nourishing the Spirit and Health of Pre-School Children on Christmas: A Seasonal Celebration and Nutritional Reassessment by PAN-Theotokos" 

By: Edelein E. Delibo

After successfully launching the PAN-Pamayanan Project 2023 on preschool-aged children enrolled at Mother Assumpta Day Care Center, Upper Madapo, Barangay 5-A, Davao City, last October 05, the Philippine Association of Nutrition—Theotokos Chapter (PAN-Theotokos) concludes the project with a Christmas Party and Nutritional Reassessment on December 06, 2023, in collaboration with the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS), Junior Institute of Tourism Professionals (JITP), and Association of Courier and Epicurean Students (ACES).

To gauge the effectiveness of the Nutritional Assessment, Nutrition Counseling, and Nutrition Education conducted in the previous months in mitigating the effects of malnutrition among the children, the nutritional reassessment included measurements of the children’s height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Of the 19 children, 10 were previously assessed by the 3rd year PAN officers last October during their PAN-Pamayanan visit. Based on the results, it was concluded that 2 out of 10 children were stunted. Moreover, out of the 9 newly assessed children, 1 was stunted, 1 was wasted, and 1 was overweight. These findings indicate that the project and its activities proved effective in mitigating the effects of malnutrition among the children, and the continuation of such efforts may further improve the lives of those in Mother Assumpta Day Care Center in the future.

As malnutrition rates in the Philippines continue to fluctuate, PAN-Theotokos hopes to have made a positive impact on the lives of the families in Mother Assumpta Day Care Center. The activities focused on empowering parents to make the right dietary choices for their children not only shed light on malnutrition but also create a platform for discussing its impact on society, especially on those who are marginalized.

"Nurturing Nature: Root to Wellness - Tree Parenting Activity"

By: Ivan Moring

In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship and community engagement, the Philippine Association of Nutrition - Theotokos Chapter (PAN), together with the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS) Faculty, Association of Courier and Epicurean Students (ACES), and Junior Institute of Tourism Professionals (JITP), orchestrated the "Root to Wellness - Tree Parenting Activity" in Datu Ladayon, Arakan, North Cotabato, on February 04, 2024. This initiative was designed to foster the sustained growth and vitality of trees previously planted by various colleges within the University of Immaculate Conception (UIC), thereby contributing to the establishment of a flourishing forest ecosystem.

The primary objective of this concerted effort was to ensure the continued prosperity of the trees, nurturing them to maturity and thus enhancing the biodiversity and ecological resilience of the region. Such endeavors resonate deeply with UIC's commitment to promoting Laudato Si', encapsulating its dedication to environmental sustainability and holistic well-being.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of different clubs, highlighting a collaborative approach and a shared sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation. Through hands-on activities such as tree pruning, watering, and mulching, participants actively engaged in the nurturing process, embodying the ethos of collective environmental stewardship.

Beyond the immediate environmental impact, the "Root to Wellness" initiative underscores the interconnectedness between human health and the well-being of the natural world. By nurturing trees and fostering a thriving ecosystem, the community takes a significant stride towards a sustainable and ecologically conscious future.

In alignment with PAN's overarching mission of promoting community health and well-being, the "Root to Wellness - Tree Parenting Activity" exemplifies the transformative power of collective action in safeguarding our planet's precious resources. Through ongoing collaboration and concerted efforts, we can cultivate a greener, healthier, and more resilient world for generations to come.

"Nourishing Futures: Guiding Paths in Nutrition and Dietetics" 

With passion and expertise, Ms. Ambag and Ms. Parajito illuminated the path to success in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of nutrition and dietetics. Drawing from their extensive experience and knowledge, they provided invaluable insights, practical advice, and inspirational anecdotes to attendees eager to make a difference in the lives of others through nutrition. 

Ms. Grecielle Ma. Rosette E. Ambag, a seasoned Clinical Dietitian, captivated the audience with her wealth of knowledge and expertise in the specialized field of clinical nutrition. Through engaging presentations and real-life case studies, she shed light on the critical role of dietetics in the prevention, management, and treatment of various medical conditions. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between diet, health, and disease, as well as the essential skills and competencies required to excel in clinical dietetics. Ms. Ambag emphasized the importance of evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and compassionate care in providing optimal nutrition support to patients in clinical settings. 

In addition, Ms. Jessily P. Parajito, a dedicated Public Health Nutritionist, enlightened attendees on the broader implications of nutrition on population health and well-being. With a focus on preventive nutrition strategies and community-based interventions, she highlighted the role of public health nutrition in addressing the root causes of malnutrition and promoting health equity. Ms. Parajito's presentations sparked discussions on the social determinants of health, nutrition policy advocacy, and the importance of culturally sensitive and context-specific approaches to nutrition interventions. Attendees were inspired to explore career opportunities in public health nutrition and contribute to the development of sustainable nutrition programs that empower communities to lead healthier lives. 

Throughout the seminar, attendees had the opportunity to engage with the speakers, ask questions, and participate in interactive discussions on a wide range of topics, including nutrition counseling, dietary assessment, food service management, research methodologies, and career pathways in nutrition and dietetics. 

In conclusion, "Nourishing Futures: Guiding Paths in Nutrition and Dietetics" was a resounding success, thanks to the invaluable contributions of Ms. Grecielle Ma. Rosette E. Ambag, RND and Ms. Jessily P. Parajito, RND, as well as the enthusiastic participation of attendees. As aspiring nutrition professionals continue to embark on their journey to nourish futures, they are equipped with the knowledge, inspiration, and guidance needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of nutrition and dietetics.

"Community Outreach Program at Salasang Elementary School"

By: Erica Ranes

In a remarkable display of unity and dedication to community welfare, various University Organizations recently came together for an impactful Community Outreach Program at Salasang Elementary School in Arakan, North Cotabato. Led by the UIC College of Medical and Biological Sciences, in partnership with the College of Human Environmental Sciences, the Philippine Association of Nutrition Theotokos Chapter, and the University Community Development Services, this initiative represented a significant advancement in addressing the urgent health needs of the area's residents.

The program, held on March 24, 2024, was carefully crafted to address the crucial issues surrounding health and nutrition practices within the community. PAN-Theotokos, drawing on the expertise of its members, was tasked with conducting a comprehensive Nutrition Assessment aimed at gaining in-depth insights into the nutritional well-being of individuals. This assessment served as the foundation of the program, providing essential data to guide interventions and strategies aimed at enhancing overall health.

Following the thorough Nutrition Assessment, participants transitioned seamlessly into counseling sessions. Here, 3rd-year Nutrition and Dietetics Students took on the responsibility of explaining the assessment findings to participants. Subsequently, individuals were given the crucial opportunity to engage in detailed conversations about their nutritional status and receive personalized, practical advice for adopting healthier lifestyle habits. This comprehensive approach will empower individuals by equipping them with valuable knowledge and insights regarding their nutritional status and overall health.

"Collaborative Community Assessment of MedTech and Nutrition Students: Empowering Health of Children"

By: Leigh Castro

Innovative solutions are often produced by multidisciplinary teams in the aim of improving health and wellness. As a result, a strategic cooperation was formed between the College of Medical and Biological Sciences Medical Technology, PAN-Theotokos officers, and other Nutrition and Dietetics students. The goal of this group effort was to offer a ray of hope for preserving children's nutritional well-being. The intention of this is to provide the best information as possible on the planned actions that were done to guarantee the program’s success.

The second segment of the three-part series program was conducted at the University of Immaculate Conception's adopted community in Zonta Village Tibungco. The core objective of this initiative was to assist in the identification of children who are at risk of nutritional deficiencies, thereby enabling the provision of appropriate care. MedTech students were primarily engaged in conducting biochemical assessments of the children, while students specializing in Nutrition and Dietetics were responsible for performing anthropometric assessments and delivering nutrition counseling subsequent to the generation of results.

The community outreach program in Zonta Village Tibungco has allowed the students to demonstrate the important role of interdisciplinary teamwork in preserving children's nutritional health. These kinds of collaborations should be greatly encouraged and because it has  had  potential to make communities more healthier

Nourishing Lives: A Community Outreach in Barangay Tawan-Tawan: A PAN-Theotokos Initiative

By: Deanne Toledo

In a resolute commitment to bolster community health, the Philippine Association of Nutrition - Theotokos Chapter (PAN-Theotokos) has initiated the PAN Project 2024. With its sights set on elevating the nutritional well-being of Barangay Tawan-Tawan, Baguio District, Davao City, this endeavor signals a concerted effort to address the health concerns of the community. Collaborating with the MLS 1st-year students-Cluster Two, this Community Outreach Program embodies a unified approach aimed at fostering positive change.

PAN-Theotokos meticulously devised a series of activities as part of the project, encompassing Nutritional Assessment, Nutrition Counseling, and Nutrition Education. At the heart of these endeavors lies a dedication to empowering residents with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about their health.

One significant component of the initiative saw the mobilization of Nutrition and Dietetics Students from the 1st to 3rd year, who conducted a nutrition counseling session on April 14, 2024. During this session, these students served as ambassadors of nutrition education, sharing their expertise with the community members to deepen their understanding of their own nutritional status.

Through interactive discussions and personalized guidance, the students imparted valuable insights into the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. Residents were equipped with practical strategies to optimize their dietary habits, address nutritional deficiencies, and enhance their overall well-being.

The collaborative efforts between PAN-Theotokos and the MLS 1st-year students exemplify the transformative potential of community-driven initiatives. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of various stakeholders, the project endeavors to catalyze sustainable change and promote a culture of health and wellness in Barangay Tawan-Tawan.

As the project continues to unfold, PAN-Theotokos remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing healthier communities. Through ongoing engagement, education, and empowerment, the residents of Barangay Tawan-Tawan are poised to embark on a journey towards improved health outcomes and enhanced quality of life.