On Wednesday, May 31, 2023, the mayor of Iloilo City, Jerry Treñas, and public interest legal firm ImagineLaw met to explore the creation of a healthy public food procurement policy that will increase citizens' access to wholesome food.
“We are committed to creating a healthier food environment in our city. With this collaboration [with ImagineLaw], we hope to make nutritious food more easily accessible to all members of our community,” Treñas said.
All food served by public institutions, including local government offices, departments, hospitals, and development centers, within the local, must adhere to a set of nutritional requirements under the policy, which may take the form of an ordinance or executive order. A similar policy is currently being implemented.
“No public funds should be spent on unhealthy food,” said Jeline Corpuz, a registered nutritionist-dietitian and a project manager from ImagineLaw. “We are happy that the City Government is committed to improving the overall health and nutrition of families in Iloilo City,” she added.
The healthy public food procurement policy won't just apply to government buildings; it will also apply to city-run events like conferences, seminars, and public gatherings. Additionally, it will encourage buying nutritious food and ingredients from nearby farmers and food producers.
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