Polomolok, South Cotabato – August 1, 2025 | In celebration of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, the Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Philippine Pediatric Society, Provincial Government of South Cotabato, and LGU Polomolok, spearheaded a successful breastfeeding awareness event held at the Polomolok Municipal Gymnasium today.
With the theme “Yakap-Hakab: Prioritize Breastfeeding—Create Sustainable Support System,” the event highlighted the importance of breastfeeding as a public health priority and aimed to build stronger community support for nursing mothers. One of the main features of the event was the simultaneous breastfeeding activity titled “Hakab Ta 25,” which gathered around 100 breastfeeding mothers and advocates from various communities in Polomolok.
“We gather not just to celebrate breastfeeding, but to embrace the fundamental role it plays in fostering healthy generations,” said Paul Vincent Torres, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital, as he welcomed the participants. He emphasized that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice, but a collective responsibility and a powerful step towards a healthier nation.
The event was also supported by private hospitals in South Cotabato, including SOCOMEDICS Medical Center and Roel Senador Hospital, further strengthening the multi-sectoral partnership in advancing maternal and child health.
A wellness lecture was also conducted, led by Genesis Navales, Family Planning Coordinator. The session provided valuable information on the health benefits of breastfeeding, maternal support systems, and proper infant care practices.
Among the participating mothers was Jocelyn Dalugdug from Crossing Palkan, who shared her personal journey as a breastfeeding mother of three.
“Ang breastfeeding, indi lang kay makapabakod sang lawas sang bata, kundi makahatag man sang madalom nga relasyon sa tunga sang iloy kag bata. Indi sila dapat mahadlok magpadayon,” she said.
The celebration in Polomolok is one of the many activities lined up this August to promote awareness, education, and support for breastfeeding families across South Cotabato. Organizers hope that through sustained collaboration and advocacy, every child will be given the best start in life.
