A LAWMAKER is pushing to establish safe and accessible breastfeeding measures across Davao City.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved on first reading Tuesday a proposed ordinance seeking to establish safe and accessible breastfeeding measures across Davao City, following a privilege speech delivered by
Proponent Councilor Luna Maria Dominique Acosta introduced the measure in her privilege speech at the regular session on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
Acosta, as a nursing mother, highlighted the need for stronger local policy support to protect and empower women who breastfeed.
“Dili jud lalim mahimo usab ka breastfeeding mama, pero para sa bata, himoon nato ang tanan. Mao na ang kinahanglan jud og suporta gikan sa tanang sektor,” Acosta said, emphasizing that multi-sectoral support is essential to relieve the burdens of nursing mothers.
She noted that breastfeeding saves families up to ₱100,000 annually compared to formula milk.
While breastfeeding is free, mothers continue to face hidden costs such as pumps, bags, covers, supplements, and other physical and societal challenges.
The proposed measure aligns with World Breastfeeding Month every August.
Acosta also announced the upcoming “Buntis and Breastfeeding Congress” set for Aug. 28 in Gaisano Mall of Davao.
The annual event, organized by Team Acosta under the theme “Smart Mama, Strong Baby: Kahibalo ug pag-atiman para sa mas himsog nga kaugmaon,” will offer free ultrasounds, HIV testing, medical and lactation consultations, and support group sessions.
“With this event, we hope that we can provide the support needed for our pregnant and breastfeeding mothers,” she said.
Acosta stressed the annual event is not enough, but the city needs to do more in terms of policy to support women who are breastfeeding.
To note, the Davao City Health Office is calling for more breastfeeding mothers with extra milk supply to donate to the Southern Philippines Medical Center Human Milk Bank.
The CHO reported that while the number of donations is steady, demand continues to rise.
The agency is also calling for more establishments in the city to provide more lactation stations, considering that there are only 53 recorded lactation stations across the city.
