IN WESTERN Visayas, there’s an uptick in exclusive breastfeeding practices among new mothers, thanks to the robust public health efforts particularly of the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6. As we acknowledge this success during this Breastfeeding Awareness Month of August, the need for continuous education and advocacy to maintain and build upon these gains cannot be overemphasized.
The report from DOH reveals an inspiring picture: nearly all mothers in Region 6 are now exclusively breastfeeding their infants from birth and initiating breastfeeding immediately after delivery. This achievement comes in the face of pervasive formula milk advertising across media, showcasing a significant cultural shift towards natural feeding practices. This year’s Breastfeeding Awareness Month theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, aptly reflects the diverse journeys of breastfeeding mothers and the supportive roles that families, communities, and healthcare providers must continue to play.
Breastfeeding, despite its evident benefits ranging from strengthened immune systems in infants to economic savings for families, still encounters societal and cultural hurdles. Misinformation and entrenched stigmas, especially around public breastfeeding, persist. Here, continuous education plays a dual role: it empowers mothers with knowledge and skills while also shifting public perceptions to create a more supportive environment.
In Iloilo, the efforts to promote breastfeeding have been particularly visible. The province celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Hakab Na! Iloilo 2024, a landmark event that not only commemorates a decade of advocacy but also reinforces the commitment to making workplaces mother-baby friendly. Such localized initiatives not only provide practical support to breastfeeding mothers but also serve as public endorsements of breastfeeding’s value, encouraging broader societal acceptance.
While we celebrate the strides made, we must also acknowledge the journey ahead. The need for ongoing advocacy is clear. We urge local government units, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to continue investing in breastfeeding education programs. Simultaneously, media outlets must strive to offer balanced narratives that counteract the commercial pressures from formula manufacturers and provide mothers with factual, supportive information.
By ensuring that every mother receives the support and information she needs to choose breastfeeding confidently, we are investing in a healthier, more resilient community. Let us keep the momentum going — our children’s future depends on it.
