An Assessment of Top-Performing Locales in Nutrition Using the Collective Impact Framework

Created on 13th May 2022

Conference: The Asian Undergraduate Research Symposium (AURS8)
Title: An Assessment of Top-Performing Locales in Nutrition Using the Collective Impact Framework
Stream: Political Science: Administration, Governance and Finance
Presentation Type: Virtual Poster Presentation
Authors:
Angelika Gultia, Ateneo De Manila University, Philippines
Samantha Ricafort, Ateneo De Manila University, Philippines
John Lee, Ateneo De Manila University, Philippines

Abstract:

Malnutrition has been a long-standing problem in the Philippines, evidenced by major challenges across metrics and implementation. In response, this paper analyzes best practices and potential gaps in developing effective nutrition programs in the country and how local government units (LGUs) can utilize collective impact as a means to advance inclusive programs against malnutrition. The study was undertaken through a review and thematic analysis of the National Nutrition Council’s (NNC) compendium of eleven cases detailing the nutrition action initiatives of exemplary locales in the Philippines from the lens of the Collective Impact Framework. As such, the cases were assessed on five dimensions: Common Agenda, Shared Measurement Systems, Mutually Reinforcing Activities, Continuous Communication, and Backbone Support Organization.
Seven emerging themes were pivotal to the success of cited exemplar LGUs namely mayor’s leadership, nutrition officers’ leadership, benchmarking, structural systems, intersectoral mobilization, program design, and legislative support. These themes were also the means through which the five dimensions of the collective impact framework were fulfilled. Results also revealed that the framework is a viable lens through which LGUs can evaluate the efficacy of their nutritional programs and diagnose contextualized gaps. However, it must be emphasized that the framework must not be the sole basis to qualify and craft solutions to yield nutritional impact. The study can be generalized as a holistic model for effective nutrition action in the Philippines. Moreover, the results may also serve as a benchmark for other local government units striving to address undernutrition in their respective locales.