THE Philippines is facing not just one but three issues of malnutrition, according to the Department of Health (DOH).
Speaking at the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) Mayor’s Forum 2025, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the country is facing “a triple burden of malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, and overnutrition.”
“The impact of this trilemma is significant according to the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Report,” he added.
The health chief said undernutrition is evident in the high prevalence of stunting (26.7 percent) and wasting (5.5 percent) among children under five years old.
He also cited the problem of micronutrient deficiency, including Vitamin A, Iron, and Iodine, among others.
Lastly, Herbosa noted the high prevalence of childhood and adult obesity and overweight at 40 percent.
“Malnutrition ranks high among the contributors to the disease burden in the Philippines,” said Herbosa.
Because of this, the Department said it is calling on local government officials to help address the problem of malnutrition.
These include their help in planning, budgeting, implementation, and mobilizing of communities.
“This is not simply a health issue. This is a governance and development issue. As mayors, you are the guardians at the gate. You are the leaders who can rewrite this story,” he said.
“This goal cannot be achieved by the national government alone. It requires your leadership with conviction and compassion,” added Herbosa.
