Freedom from hunger and malnutrition has been called the first human right. Many have argued that while rules; peace cannot prevail. Unfortunately, there is very little in the 1987 Constitution that directly this fundamental right.

There is every reason to be greatly concerned about malnutrition in the country. Undernutrition is a problem affecting a significantly large proportion of our people. It is found in varying forms and extent, among infants, preschool and school children, adolescent, pregnant and lactating women, workers and the elderly. But the nature and magnitude of nutritional problems are not the same in all parts of the country. There are rural and urban, intraurban and regional differences. There are also variations by season and occupational groups.

The most prevalent types of undernutrition in the country are related to deficiencies in energy and protein, vitamins A. iron and iodine. These deficiencies have serious implications not only on physical growth but also on health, intellectual development , social behavior, reproductive performance and work productivity. Moreover, malnutrition does not only tell us the condition of those affected at present; it also hints at their future and their progeny's future, for some of the effects of certain types of undernutrition are inter-generational. Malnutrition also bears witness to society's failure to provide an environment which enables its people to attain their full genetic potential.
 

RA
784
F56
Food and Freedom Nutrition: A Springboard to Biosocial Uplift, A Test of a Nation's Resolve - 614
Cecilia A. Florencio
University of the Philippines Press
1989

food and human rights