In a collective effort to address malnutrition in the province, the Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI), in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) – Antique and various local government units (LGUs), conducted a two-day weighing scale calibration on January 27 – 28 at the DOST Antique Training Room.

The initiative aimed to ensure the accuracy of weighing scales used across seven (7) municipalities, including Caluya, Sebaste, Tibiao, Barbaza, Laua-an, Belison, and San Remigio.

A total of 159 calibration requests were received and accommodated, with Engr. John Lorenz Navales of the DOST VI Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL) performing the calibration of digital, spring, and platform weighing scales. Representatives from DOH-Antique, including nutritionist-dietitians and municipal health officers, also participated in bringing their equipment for assessment.

Accurate measurements are essential in obtaining reliable health and nutrition data which is a critical component in addressing malnutrition; this calibration marks the start of a series of ongoing collaborative efforts to ensure accurate weighing scales for monitoring the nutritional status of individuals, particularly children. These efforts will also play a key role in developing effective interventions to fight malnutrition in the province. (TFBYnion/Antique PSTO)