Mujiv Hataman on Monday, March 16, expressed concern over findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) showing persistent stunting and literacy challenges among children in Basilan.
In a statement, Hataman said the problems highlighted in the report reflect long-standing issues rather than recent setbacks.
‘Wounds of the past’
“These are wounds of the past,” he said, noting that years of neglect have contributed to the province’s current challenges in child development and education.
Hataman emphasized that efforts to address stunting — a condition caused by chronic malnutrition that affects physical growth and cognitive development — must begin early in a child’s life. He pointed to the “first 1,000 days,” the period from pregnancy until a child’s second birthday, as the most critical stage for development.
“It is during these nearly three years that the foundation of a person’s body and intelligence is formed. If we fail here, it is difficult to recover as they grow older,” Hataman said.
The governor said the provincial government is strengthening access to healthcare services through the Basilan HELPS framework, which prioritizes health and education programs.
Hataman also highlighted the Magbasa Kite initiative, a literacy campaign launched during his first term that targets students struggling with basic reading skills.
He said addressing the province’s education and health challenges requires broader institutional support, urging the government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Government to provide additional resources and assistance.
“We are calling the attention of the BARMM Government and its agencies to address these shortcomings and provide the necessary support for programs that will help solve this,” Hataman said.
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Hataman: Basilan combat stunting
Hataman also linked efforts to combat stunting with the province’s Magtanah Program, which promotes local agricultural production to strengthen food security.
He said ensuring that households have consistent access to nutritious food is essential in reducing child malnutrition.
“Our goal is clear: we are not just constructing buildings; we are building a generation of Basileños who are physically healthy and mentally sharp,” Hataman said.
Hataman added that the findings of the EDCOM II report should serve as a call to intensify ongoing reforms rather than discourage them. (with reports from Ely Dumaboc)
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