On January 6, 2025, the Quezon City Health Department (QCHD) commenced “Operation Timbang Plus,” a program designed to assess and improve the nutritional status of children aged 0 to 59 months within the city. The initiative is led by the QCHD’s Nutrition Section, in collaboration with City Health Workers and Barangay Health Workers.
The program involves teams visiting various barangays to measure the weight and height of children under five years old. This data collection aims to identify malnutrition cases, including underweight, stunting, and wasting, enabling the provision of targeted nutritional interventions. Such assessments are crucial for early detection and management of malnutrition, which remains a significant public health concern in the Philippines.Â
In addition to anthropometric measurements, the health teams distribute Vitamin A supplements and deworming tablets to children aged six months to four years. These interventions are part of the Department of Health’s Micronutrient Supplementation Program, aiming to address vitamin deficiencies and parasitic infections that can adversely affect children’s growth and development.Â
Operation Timbang Plus is conducted annually across the Philippines as part of the government’s efforts to monitor and improve child health and nutrition. The data gathered informs local and national policies and programs aimed at reducing malnutrition rates and promoting child well-being. In Quezon City, the program reflects the local government’s commitment to ensuring the health of its youngest residents.Â
Parents and guardians in Quezon City are encouraged to participate in Operation Timbang Plus by bringing their children to designated weighing and measurement sites in their respective barangays. Active community involvement is essential for the program’s success in identifying and addressing nutritional issues among children.