THE Department of Health (DOH) distributed Tuesday pasteurized breast milk to at least 14 babies of evacuees housed at the Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex in Zamboanga City.

DOH regional nutrition coordinator Evelyn Capistrano said the pasteurized breast milk was donated by the Fabella Hospital and Philippine Children's Medical Center in coordination with the Jaycees.

Capistrano said they received Monday some 70 canisters of pasteurized breast milk to be given to babies at the evacuation centers.

The pasteurized milk, she added, is being given to children aged zero to six months whose mother could not produce milk because they are under stress and trauma brought about by the standoff in the city.

So far, at least 90 newborn babies aged zero to six months are housed at the sports complex, which is the biggest evacuation center.

Capistrano said the number of babies housed at the evacuation centers may increase as they have yet to complete the listing of infants. (Bong Garcia)