ROSARIO, LA UNION- The Provincial Health Office of La Union (PHO- LU) in coordination with the Department of Health-Regional Office I and the Municipality of Rosario, La Union spearheaded the conduct of the Buntis Congress with the theme: “Sa Tamang Paghahanda, Kalusugan at Kinabukasan ng Ina at Bata ay Mapapala” last August 24, 2016 at Rosario Civic Center, Rosario, La Union. This is an awareness campaign project for pregnant women in support to maternal and child health before, during and after pregnancy which aims to intensify the promotion of the importance of good health and nutrition during the First 1000 days of life.

A total of Three Hundred Thirty (330) pregnant mothers attended the congress coming from the different barangays of the Municipality of Rosario, La Union. Pre-natal check-up, dental check-up and mobile blood donation were simultaneously conducted and assisted by health professionals from the provincial and district hospitals of La Union.

Series of talks on health and nutrition for pregnant women, promotion of breastfeeding and other relevant topics were presented by resource speakers from concerned agencies including the National Nutrition Council represented by Nutrition Officer I Ma. Victoria Dela Cruz who discussed the Power of the First 1000 Days.

Guest of Honor and Speaker Hon. Francisco Emmanuel R. Ortega III and Regional Director of DOH-ROI Myrna Cabotaje gave their words of wisdom and encouragement to the soon to be mothers.

Pregnant mothers also showcased their “Salakog” which is derived from the word “sala ti masikog” (dance of the pregnant). Highlight of the event was the ceremonial distribution of OB kits from the DOH-ROI and tokens from the sponsors of the congress. MVQDC