Investing in proper nutrition today is crucial for the healthy growth and development of tomorrow’s leaders. This was the core message emphasized by DOST Capiz Assistant Provincial Director Ryan Vilmor J. Dumpit as he underscored the need to address child stunting – a condition caused by chronic malnutrition.

In its commitment to promote and improve health and nutrition, the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VI (DOST VI), in collaboration with Capiz State University-Pontevedra Campus (CapSU Pontevedra), officially launched the milk feeding program under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) project. This initiative aims to improve the health and nutrition of undernourished children in Barangay Binuntucan, Pontevedra, Capiz.

This initiative goes beyond simple distribution, showcasing the tangible results of DOST VI’s comprehensive support to local dairy producers. The fresh milk, sourced from carabaos of local farmers, being distributed to selected kindergarten and elementary students in their respective schools is the culmination of DOST VI’s focused interventions. Each bottle represents not just nourishment, but the successful implementation of DOST VI’s assistance, including crucial food safety training and assistance with the finalization of product packaging and labels.

This assistance has empowered local farmers to transform their raw milk into a high-quality, safe, and appealing product ready for consumption. The 10-month feeding program, a core component of the CEST project, ensures that children receive essential nutrients for healthy growth and well-being.

To further support this initiative and reinforce the project’s economic development component, dairy processing equipment was turned over to help establish a sustainable dairy enterprise within the community.

By integrating science and technology into grassroots initiatives, DOST VI and CapSU Pontevedra demonstrate how collaborative efforts can drive positive change, uplift communities, and build a healthier future for the children of Barangay Binuntucan. (LNGGebauer, MCPielago/DOST Capiz)