To address hunger and malnutrition in some parts of the province, University of Antique Extension Services Unit in partnership with Department of Science and Technology (DOST) VI and Local Government Units in five selected municipalities spearheaded the GIA Program: Production and Distribution of Enhanced Nutribun (E-Nutribun) in the Province of Antique to Fight COVID-19 Pandemic.

From the municipalities of Sibalom, San Remegio, Hamtic, Valderrama, and Belison, 150 children chosen by their respective Local Government Units (LGUs), will be the beneficiaries of the E-Nutribun Squash Variant.

According to Department of Science and Technology Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), E-Nutribun is a reformulated form of Nutribun which is considered as the bread of the 70’s. The enhanced version contains more micronutrients such as iron and vitamin A. Weighing 160-165 per piece, its texture is also softer making it easier for children to hold and bite.

The GIA Program was first implemented amidst the COVID-19 pandemic as an answer to DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 12 series of 2020 also known as “Guidelines in the Implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program During the Community Quarantine Period or Other Similar Emergencies”.

The program is now on its third phase since its implementation in May 2021./IAP