COTABATO CITY, September 7, 2026 — Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito on Monday underscored the important role of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) in promoting preventive healthcare, proper nutrition, and early detection of health and nutritional concerns in Bangsamoro communities.

Benito made the statement during his welcome remarks at the Training on the Basic Course for Barangay Nutrition Scholars held at the Ministry of Health (MOH) Conference Hall in Cotabato City.

The training was facilitated by the MOH in partnership with the Office of MP Benito through his 2026 Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF).

Benito said the activity goes beyond skills development, stressing that strengthening community-based health workers is essential to bringing government health services closer to families.

He noted that many Bangsamoro families continue to seek assistance for hospitalization, medicines, laboratory procedures, and other healthcare needs, highlighting the importance of preventive measures and early intervention.

“The answer begins with prevention, early detection, proper nutrition, health education, and regular monitoring at the community level,” Benito said.

He described BNS workers as among the frontliners closest to families and communities, particularly in monitoring children's nutritional conditions, educating mothers and families, promoting healthy practices, and connecting residents with appropriate health services.

“Kayo ay mga frontliners sa ating mga barangay. Kayo ang pinakamalapit sa ating mga pamilya at komunidad,” Benito told the participants.

He encouraged the BNS participants to maximize the training by actively participating, asking questions, and sharing their experiences so they could apply the knowledge and skills gained in their respective communities.

Benito also emphasized that public service requires coordination among government institutions, local governments, health workers, and community-based organizations.

He said partnerships such as the training are important in strengthening the capacity of workers who directly serve communities.

The MP also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting programs that address the needs of Bangsamoro families, particularly in health, nutrition, education, livelihood, and social services.

He said his office has supported various community-based initiatives, including medical assistance, educational support, livelihood assistance, and other programs aimed at responding to the needs of constituents.

Benito stressed that public service should focus not only on immediate assistance but also on developing systems and programs that provide long-term solutions and enable communities to become more self-reliant.

“The true measure of public service is not simply the position we hold or the programs we implement. It is measured by the lives we touch, the families we help, and the difference we make in our communities,” he said.

The MP thanked the Ministry of Health, trainers, facilitators, local government partners, and participants for their cooperation in strengthening grassroots nutrition and health services.

He likewise urged the BNS workers to continue performing their duties with commitment, saying their work contributes to building a healthier and stronger Bangsamoro.

The Bangsamoro Government has recently strengthened its institutional response to malnutrition through the operationalization of the Bangsamoro Nutrition Commission, which supports regional and local efforts to address nutrition concerns.