Introduction: Teenage pregnancy is a persistent global health challenge, with an estimated 13% of females below 18 years having given birth in 2022 (UNICEF, 2024). In the Philippines, approximately 5% of females aged 15–19 years have experienced pregnancy or childbirth (PSA, 2022). This study evaluated the nutritional and health status, nutrient intake, health-seeking behaviours, and participation in government programmes among pregnant adolescents (PAs) aged 10-19 years in selected municipalities in Batangas, Laguna, and Quezon Provinces. Methods: A crosssectional design was employed in 2022, involving 165 PAs and 28 key informants (KIs) interviewed via mobile or video calls during the COVID-19 pandemic. Energy and nutrient intake were assessed using a 24-hour food recall. Results: Among participants (mean age 17.7 years), 50% were nutritionally at risk, 70% had normal blood pressure, 24% were pre-hypertensive, and 6% were hypertensive. Mean energy intake ranged from 2,267 kcal (16–18 years) to 2,791 kcal (13–15 years), with only one-third to one-half meeting recommended intake levels (p=0.087). Protein adequacy ranged from 59 to 70%, while calcium (28–39%) and iron (5–10%) intakes were markedly deficient. Niacin adequacy differed significantly across age groups (p=0.036). These findings align with national data, where only 14.9% of PAs meet energy intake, and 23% are anaemic (DOST-FNRI, 2023). Cultural beliefs (67.3%) and food fallacies (53.3%) were common, while 64% said needed programmes and services were available. Conclusion: The findings highlighted significant nutritional deficiencies, underscoring the need for intensified monitoring, targeted nutritional interventions, and comprehensive educational strategies to support adolescent maternal health.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Filipino children aged 6–10 yrs are consuming poor quantities and quality of food based on the 2013 Philippine National Nutrition Survey. During these years healthy eating habits must be formed through family influence. Within this background, a complete package of nutrition intervention—feeding and nutrition classes, was pilot tested in selected schools to determine 1) changes in nutrition attitude and behavior and 2) food intake of schoolchildren after the intervention. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A quasi-experimental design was used in the study. School children aged 7–9 yrs enrolled in selected Philippine public elementary schools and their mothers/ caregivers were the study participants. Profile and socio-demographic data were collected from each participant at baseline. The nutrition behavior and food intake of children were determined using the modified Child and Diet Evaluation Tool (CADET) and the 24-h food recall form, respectively. Data were analyzed using Stata version 15. RESULTS: No significant differences in characteristics were found among the 339 childmother pairs in the 4 study groups. The modified CADET recorded improved mean attitude scores of children ranging from 22 to 24 points at endline in the group receiving both lunch feeding and nutrition education classes (group 3). The perceived better behavior of children was reported by their mothers in terms of increased intake of milk and vegetables and decreased consumption of sugar. These improvements were supported by the actual food intake of children obtained from the 24-h food recall. CONCLUSIONS Family involvement, particularly of mothers/caregivers, appeared to be an important factor in shaping the children's eating behavior. An intervention package with lunch feeding and nutrition classes resulted in a substantial improvement in children's behavior and actual food intake with increased levels of vegetables and milk while lowering sugar consumption. The adoption of the intervention package in public elementary schools should therefore be pursued.