Office on Aging: Meals4U received over 90% approval rating

Despite recent criticism about their food, Office on Aging caterer Meals4U received an impressive approval rating of over 90% in a recent survey, according to Aging director Walter Manglona.

“We typically conduct satisfaction surveys at least once a year or whenever there is a change in our nutrition service provider. Past survey results indicate that seniors are generally pleased with the meals provided. While individual preferences vary, we are delighted to report that our current caterer received an impressive approval rating, with over 90% of respondents expressing satisfaction,” he told Saipan Tribune.

Recent criticism of the Office on Aging caterer stem from Jack Muña’s complaint on social media last Saturday afternoon.

“Did you know that the caterer [Meals4U] for the NMI Senior Homebound patients does not only get two pieces of tofu with bean sprouts for their lunch but sometimes the caterer will serve tuna meat taken from his fish store that is three to four days old? The tuna meat is not fresh! You can tell the difference between a fresh tuna and an old tuna no matter how you cook. What a shame and this has to stop! I am living proof because I get one from them.”

The Faceobok post received several reactions. Biba Manamko, for one, explained that the meals are carefully monitored by quality control staff at the Office on Aging. The commenter further explained that the delivery staff personally pick up meals from the caterer and monitors any concerns to ensure quality and safety.

Muña was even encouraged in the comment by Biba Manamko to visit their Facebook page to see their posted “delicious meals.”

In the comment section, Muña mentioned that the food being served by the previous caterer “Terry Bolis” and “Herman’s” were better.

Manglona said he respects Muña’s opinions but said a majority of their congregants seem to be happy with Meals4U.

“I understand that culinary preferences can be quite subjective, and while Mr. Muña may have favored the meals from our previous caterers such as Bolis and Herman’s Modern Bakery, other seniors have different opinions.”

He also confirmed that Meals4U is their current caterer and that their service commenced in January of this year, succeeding Lighthouse Restaurant, their previous provider.

“As a standard practice, once a catering contract reaches its term, we initiate another bidding process,” added Manglona.

According to him the bidding process follows standard government procurement protocols wherein catering companies are invited to submit their bids and must meet all specified program requirements to be considered.

“Each proposal is evaluated carefully to ensure compliance with our standards, allowing us to select the provider best suited to meet the needs of our program and one that offers the lowest price.”

The meals served to active congregants at the Saipan Senior Center and NMI Senior Homebound elderly clients are generally the same, added Manglona. However, special accommodations are made for individuals with specific dietary needs, such as those undergoing renal care, those with food allergies, religious dietary restrictions, or other physical limitations, such as difficulty chewing, requiring special meals. Aside from these exceptions, the majority of the meals remain consistent across both services.

Manglona also addressed the question raised in the aforementioned FB comment section on whether the caterer’s food preparation is monitored on a daily basis.

“Our dietitian rigorously reviews and approves all meal plans provided to our seniors, ensuring compliance with the nutritional standards set forth by the Older Americans Act and other relevant nutritional guidelines. In addition to menu oversight, she has conducted educational sessions at the Saipan Senior Center to promote a deeper understanding of proper nutrition. Should any specific concerns arise, we promptly coordinate with both the dietitian and our catering partner to address and resolve them, upholding the highest standards of dietary care and responsiveness.”

Manglona also said it was unfair to point out the caterer’s Filipino ethnic background in one of the comments on Facebook.

“It is important to note that the Office on Aging upholds a strict policy of inclusivity and fairness, selecting caterers solely based on merit and their ability to meet our rigorous standards for quality and service and comply with all bid requirements, without regard to race or nationality,” he said.

Meanwhile, Muña in a phone interview, said that the intention of his post in Speak Up Taotao CNMI is not to complain but rather to raise a concern.

“You know, people took it as a complaint, but you know it’s a concern that their caterer is not supposed to be serving that kind of meal,” said Muña.

He added that he wants to call the attention of the Office on Aging on the comment Biba Manamko made about him that he was harassing their caterer.

“They actually said something about that, and you know that’s supposed to be handled by the office privately not on social media… these people are not watching what they’re saying,” said Muña.

Manglona reiterated that their priority remains to provide a nutritious and balanced diet for all seniors and that his office is dedicated to continually evaluate and refine their meal programs to ensure the highest quality service.

“We value all feedback, both positive and negative, as part of our commitment to excellence,” he said.