The city council passed Resolution 543, s. 2023 that authorized Mayor Benjamin Magalong to enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera for the implementation of a salt iodization project in the city.
The resolution stated P484,772.50 worth of funding was approved under the DOST-Cordillera 2023 Local Grants-in-Aid to be downloaded to the city government for the project, “S&T Intervention for the Establishment of the Salt Iodization Plant in LGU-Baguio City.”
The DOST’s Industrial Technology Development Institute has engineered a revolutionary salt iodizing machine to facilitate the iodization process for small-scale processors in the Summer Capital, empowering them to contribute to health and nutrition programs.
Republic Act 8172 or an An Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN), plays a vital role in combating micronutrient malnutrition in the country and recognizes the pressing need to take proactive measures.
“This legislation underscores the importance of iodine fortification in salt, a fundamental staple in the diets of humans and animals.
The Cordillera has been grappling with endemic iodine deficiency disorders, a situation that demands immediate attention and collaborative action,” the resolution stated.
The city council, through an amended resolution, allowed the use of the ground floor/first floor of the City Health Services Office Annex Building for the Salt Iodization Project of the Baguio City Nutrition Multi-Purpose Cooperative that started in 1996. – Gaby B. Keith
