The Province of Samar earned multiple recognitions at the 2025 Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony – Gawad Nutrisyon, held at The Tropics, MacArthur Park, Palo, Leyte. Organized by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region VIII and the Department of Health – Eastern Visayas Center for Health Development, the ceremony celebrated local government units and nutrition advocates championing the fight against malnutrition in Eastern Visayas.

Samar proudly received the 2024 Green Banner Seal of Compliance, a distinction given to provinces and cities that have consistently implemented effective nutrition programs and demonstrated significant improvement in the nutritional status of their constituents. This recognition affirms Samar’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that every Samarnon family has access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food, aligned with Governor Sharee Ann Tan’s health and human development agenda.

Adding to the province’s achievements, Ms. Lucila C. Loterte, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer, was honored as the 2024 Regional Outstanding Provincial Nutrition Action Officer. Her leadership, strategic planning, and innovative approach to community nutrition have led Samar to reach new milestones in its fight against malnutrition.

Ms. Loterte’s recognition highlights her exceptional coordination with local nutrition committees, dedication to data-driven interventions, and hands-on approach in program delivery, qualities that have positioned Samar as a model province in Eastern Visayas.
She was also formally recognized as a contender for the 2026 National Outstanding Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Award, representing Region VIII at the national level.

The awards stand as a testament to Samar’s continuing progress in advancing nutrition governance and multi-sectoral collaboration under the Tutok at Aksyon sa Nutrisyon Program and other health-focused initiatives. Through sustained partnerships with LGUs, barangay nutrition scholars, and national agencies, the province continues to uphold its mission of reducing malnutrition, promoting food security, and nurturing healthy communities.

The Gawad Nutrisyon Awards is the highest regional recognition for excellence in nutrition program management and implementation. It honors provinces, cities, municipalities, and individuals who exemplify outstanding performance and innovation in advancing nutrition and public health outcomes.