Widespread chronic malnutrition in the Philippines is a human development disaster, which needs critical and urgent attention. The economic consequences of chronic malnutrition are multifaceted and extreme. Addressing chronic malnutrition therefore should be the front and center of economic and health dialogue. This paper provides the current state of child stunting, a marker of chronic malnutrition. Using a health system lens, we have identified different challenges that are impeding the delivery of cost-effective health and nutrition interventions. Lastly, we provided health system-specific solutions in addressing chronic malnutrition in the short to long term.
Comments to this paper are welcome within 60 days from the date of posting. Email publications@pids.gov.ph.