Thursday, August 09, 2007 Breastfeeding stages comeback By Carlo P. Mallo
OVER 180 countries are celebrating the "Worldwide Breastfeeding Week" from August 1 to 7.
"A global revival of breastfeeding is going on," Alex Iellamo of the World Health Organization said Wednesday during the opening of several breast feeding centers in the region.
Breast feeding centers were opened last Tuesday at the Tagum Agricultural Development Corporation Inc. (Tadeco) and at the Davao International Airport. Another breast feeding center was also opened at the Provincial Capitol of Davao del Norte in Tagum City last Monday.
Iellamo said leaders and even employers now understand the importance of a mother being able to breastfeed her baby. The proliferation of breastfeeding centers in workplaces is but one manifestation example of this growing awareness.
He said it is proof that work cannot be used as an excuse for a mother to resort to breast milk substitutes.
The Tadeco management revealed that 14 more breastfeeding stations will be put up in the 6,000 hectare agricultural area owned by the Floirendos.
The first breastfeeding centers in the region were opened by the NCCC Mall of Davao and the SM City Davao.
