NDAP concludes 2018 annual convention in Davao City

THE Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines (NDAP), the country’s largest accredited organization of health care professionals in the nutrition and dietetics fields, recently hosted its 63rd Annual Convention in Davao City.

While aimed at updating members with the latest advancements and ethical standards that shape the competitiveness of Filipino professionals in the food and nutrition service, the three-day congress brought forth the timely relevance of disseminating evidence-based medical health information in the time of misinformation and ‘fake news.’

NDAP President Zenaida Velasco said that part of the continuing education is to do away with fake news. “That is why all the topics and discussions this year are topics of general interest, in order to iron out the myths and fallacies on health and nutrition. As a key influencer, we are recognized by the Professional Regulation Commission and the Board of Nutrition and Dietetics and our members are ‘pure breed’ licensed RNDs. One can only make a strong impact if you have a strong organization, and we are banking on the strength of 33 chapters located all over the country,” she said.

“With the help of our RVPs and Chapter presidents, the strategy to bring continuing professional education is achieved, as we are able to reach out and educate members of our group. The consequence of that is that because they are armed with knowledge and skills, they will be able to serve their respective communities better.”

Anchoring on the theme “Road to Excellence: Bringing Education and Nutrition Together,” the event highlighted NDAP’s mission to reach out to its community of practitioners and various stakeholders through continuous professional education.

According to Eloisa E. Villaraza, vice-president of NDAP, the organization is adamant in using digital technology to fight off false and misleading online content by spreading truthful, science-backed published information on health, wellness and nutrition.

The dynamic analyses by Asian and international speakers from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Asian Federation of Dietetic Associations shed light on key topics and emerging trends that are shaping the health and wellness profession. Various resource personalities were featured during the plenary and parallel sessions.

This year’s gathering served as a platform for exchange of knowledge, best practices, and shared advocacies that are aimed at uplifting the overall nutrition and health standards in the country. Moreover, the speakers encouraged fellow RNDs, stakeholders, and the public to shift from reactive to a more proactive approach for better health and nutrition promotion.