San Miguel, Bohol – The Municipal Nutrition Committee of San Miguel, Bohol, spearheaded by the Municipal Mayor, Hon. Ian Gil G. Mendez conducted public awareness campaign every month. For the month of August, key messages were promoted to celebrate National Breastfeeding Awareness Month and Family Planning Month with the themes: Sama-samang Itaguyod Tamang Kaalaman at Kalinga sa Pagpapasuso and with the theme: Bata, Bata, Planado kang Ginawa!, respectively.

The August activity took place on 19 August 2022 at the town’s Legislative Building. This was attended by a total of 80 participants comprising breastfeeding support group presidents, barangay nutrition scholars, and pregnant and lactating mothers. There was also a 1-minute latch-on conducted by lactating mothers after the discussion of MHO Dr. Janilane D. Abellar, who delivered additional knowledge about the importance of breastfeeding. After that, ND II Añasco, discussed infant and young child feeding practices and the importance of personal hygiene.

Public Health Nurses, Ms. Fatima A. Lampios and Mrs. Ma. Rizelle G. Genita elaborated on the different types and essentials of natural and modern family planning methods. MNAO Ms. Clarissa C. Orevillo for her part encouraged all breastfeeding support group volunteers to diligently monitor and counsel postpartum mothers because it will contribute to end all forms of malnutrition. She also asked one of the participants to share her feelings during the session who expressed her wish to join the same activity next year. She opined that “Being a first time as pregnant mother, I have learned that breastfeeding is essential to me and my baby”. ND II Annie Claire B. Añasco, RND