Every year, schools around the Philippines observe Nutrition Month to promote good eating habits, raise awareness of proper nutrition, and emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Buhawen Elementary School successfully concluded its month-long Nutrition Month celebration in July with a diverse and extensive array of events that allowed children to showcase their creativity and abilities while also enhancing their understanding of health and nutrition.
This year's theme centered on the need for sustainable and nutrient-dense Filipino cuisine, and one of the most exciting events, the culinary competition, highlighted the use of a basic but extremely nutritious ingredient: puso ng saging (banana blossom).
A Month of Fun, Learning, and Nutrition Advocacy
Beginning in early July, Buhawen Elementary School students participated in several nutrition-related classroom and school-wide events. Educators integrated lessons on food pyramids, local vegetables, healthy eating habits, and the importance of daily meals into their curricula. However, excitement peaked at the last program.
The final event, held in the school's covered court, brought together students, teachers, parents, and staff for a half-day of fun, learning, and creativity.
Bursting with Colors: Coloring, Slogan-Making, and Poster Contests
To begin the day, students in kindergarten through sixth grade participated in a coloring competition themed around healthy foods and meals. The young pupils added vibrant colors to their pages, depicting fruits, vegetables, and traditional Filipino cuisine. Teachers circulated to help and mentor the young artists, who proudly presented their work upon completion.
The intermediate-grade poster and slogan-making competition came next. Students conveyed lessons about health and appropriate nutrition using bold text and eye-catching imagery. Slogans like "Nutrisyon ay Kayamanan, Ating Pangalagaan" and "Gulay at Prutas, Araw-Araw sa Pinggan!" reflected the kids' developing awareness of the value of making healthy food choices. Their posters, which featured rice grains, fruits, vegetables, and happy families, served as visual cues for what a nutritious Filipino plate should look like.
Heartfelt Words: The Nutrition Month Poem Recitation
The program's poem recital competition, in which a few chosen youngsters took turns on stage to recite original or memorized poems related to nutrition, was another touching feature. They recited poetry emphasizing the importance of eating a balanced diet, the dangers of junk food, and the love of mothers who always prepare wholesome meals with assurance and passion. Malunggay, kamote, and of course, puso ng saging—local produce that connects the cultural and health aspects of Filipino food traditions—were referenced in many of the poems.
The Main Event: Cooking Contest with Puso ng Saging
With the assistance of their teachers and some parents, each grade level prepared meals utilizing puso ng saging as the main ingredient in the Cooking Contest, the most anticipated event of the final day. This event highlighted the nutritional value, affordability, and adaptability of the banana blossom, making it an ideal ingredient for Filipino families.
The judges were impressed with the participants' creative meals, which included ginisang puso ng sagin, and puso ng saging burger patties.
Each meal was not only delicious, but also nutrient-dense, with high antioxidant, potassium, and fiber content.
The cooking competition taught the students how to prepare healthy meals at home in a simple, economical, and accessible way. It was also a celebration of Filipino culinary creativity that has been passed down through generations.
A Celebration Beyond the Program
The celebration's purpose was to instill values rather than to demonstrate skills or win accolades. Buhawen Elementary School succeeded in making Nutrition Month more than just an annual event; it is now a genuine reminder to the school community to value their food, traditions, and health.
Teachers' and parents' laughter, children's grins, and enthusiasm throughout the competitions all indicated the celebration's good benefits on well-being and community.
Buhawen Elementary School's last Nutrition Month activity was a dedication, not just a presentation. A commitment to teaching young people about the importance of a healthy diet, the abundance of regional foods, and the satisfaction that comes with living a healthy lifestyle. The school proved that healthy nourishment comes from more than just food by including everyone, from the youngest children to the most seasoned parents.
They reminded us all that even the most basic ingredients may have a significant impact on the plate and the lives of those who share it, with puso ng saging at the heart of their celebration.