DAVAO CITY – A proposed ordinance seeking to improve support for breastfeeding mothers in Davao City has moved forward at the City Council.
Councilor Luna Acosta, chairperson of the Committee on Peace and Public Safety, raised the proposal during a privilege speech on Tuesday.
Acosta called for safer and more accessible breastfeeding support across the city in observance of World Breastfeeding Month.
“Breastfeeding provides important health and nutritional benefits to mothers and children,” Acosta said.
However, the councilor added that such matters can also be physically, financially, and emotionally challenging.
She said mothers may spend on breastfeeding supplies while also dealing with pain, lack of sleep, and other challenges.
Despite these challenges, Acosta said breastfeeding can help families save up to P100,000 a year compared with buying formula milk.
“Being a breastfeeding mother is not easy, but we will do everything for our children,” she said.
Acosta stressed that breastfeeding mothers need support from families, workplaces, health institutions, and the government.
Team Acosta held its annual “Buntis and Breastfeeding Congress” on August 28 at the Gaisano Mall of Davao Auditorium from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dubbed “Smart Mama, Strong Baby: Kahibalo ug Pag-atiman para sa Mas Himsog nga Kaogmaon,” the event offered free ultrasounds, HIV testing, medical and breastfeeding consultations, and support group activities.
A milk-letting activity was also held in partnership with the Southern Philippines Medical Center Milk Bank.
The councilor said the annual congress provides immediate assistance to pregnant and breastfeeding women, but added that stronger local policies should support programs.
Acosta moved to have her privilege speech considered as the first reading of a proposed ordinance on safe and accessible breastfeeding in Davao City.
The motion was seconded without objection, allowing the proposed measure to proceed in the legislative process.
Acosta said the proposed ordinance aims to strengthen the city’s support system for breastfeeding mothers and help women continue nursing despite the challenges they face. (By Ivy Tejano)
