ILOILO — The Iloilo Provincial Government is stepping up efforts to improve maternal and child health by strengthening its breastfeeding advocacy this August in line with National Breastfeeding Month, reaffirming its commitment to promoting exclusive breastfeeding as a public health priority and a shared societal responsibility.
Through the Provincial Nutrition Committee (PNC), the provincial government is rallying families, communities, healthcare workers, and institutions to “prioritize breastfeeding” and “create sustainable support systems” — the global theme for this year’s observance — emphasizing that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but a collective duty crucial to food and nutrition security.
“Throughout August, we are reminded of the invaluable benefits that breastfeeding offers, not only for individual infants and mothers but also for wider societal health and nutrition goals. The theme resonates strongly, intending to achieve food and nutrition security, a topic that was prominently featured during the recently concluded Nutrition Month in July,” the provincial government stated.
Breastfeeding, according to the PNC, remains one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to ensure optimal infant nutrition, especially in the first two years of life.
Initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth provides newborns with essential nutrients and antibodies that are key to survival and long-term health. It also reduces the risk of malnutrition and non-communicable diseases later in life.
“Together, let us advocate for and support breastfeeding initiatives that foster better health outcomes for mothers and children, ultimately benefiting our society as a whole,” the committee added.
In support of breastfeeding among its workforce, the provincial government is encouraging capitol employees and clients to make use of the designated Lactation Station on the 2nd Floor of Casa Real, a safe and private space designed for nursing mothers. Trained Breastfeeding Counselors at the Provincial Health Office are also available to provide technical guidance and support.
To further mark the celebration, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) will partner with the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) and the Miag-ao municipal government to conduct a Breastmilk Letting Activity on August 24 in Miag-ao. The activity aims to collect donor breastmilk for the WVMC Human Milk Bank, which supplies lifesaving milk to premature and critically ill infants in neonatal intensive care units.
“Together, let’s continue to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding within the Capitol, striving to make Iloilo Capitol a truly breastfeeding-friendly workplace,” the PNC emphasized.
The observance of National Breastfeeding Month is mandated under Republic Act 10028, or the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, which seeks to institutionalize breastfeeding support in workplaces, communities, and public facilities as part of maternal and child health services./PN
