Philippines

Summary: Phase 2. Initial implementation supported by implementation research  

In the Philippines, MMS implementation has advanced through phased, evidence‑driven efforts that began with formative research and pilot studies across both urban settings and rural provinces. These early studies clarified the local determinants of adherence; particularly maternal knowledge, the quality of counseling, and the capacity of frontline health workers; while also revealing system bottlenecks that must be addressed for scale.

The scaling up of MMS at the national level in the Philippines has been driven by a coalition of national and international partners working to integrate MMS into existing maternal‑nutrition platforms, strengthen multi‑level coordination, and align protocols across the health system. The supply chain is undergoing deliberate reinforcement to ensure consistent product availability and quality across the archipelago, while financing relies on multiple sources and mechanisms.

The next priorities include activities such as finalizing the national MMS policy and guidelines and strengthening coordination.

(Sources: HMHB Survey 2025, UNICEF NutriDash and HMHB Survey 2021-2023)

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Summary: Phase 4. Sustained scale-up & integration

In the Philippines, BEP supplements are part of the National Dietary Supplementation Programme Totok Kainan, which is delivered in selected provinces and integrated into existing health services. The supplements vary depending on the stage of pregnancy and are provided to third trimester pregnant women or earlier if nutritionally at risk (BMI<18.5kg/m2 in first trimester, low gestational weight gain at any time during pregnancy, MUAC<23cm, pregnant adolescent).

Source: Global Nutrition Cluster Report 2023

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