AN ORDINANCE requiring local offices and establishments in La Trinidad to have breast-feeding corners is now gaining headway in Benguet's capital town.
Authored by councilor Roderick Awingan, the proposed ordinance mandates all government agencies and private establishments in the Valley to establish breast-feeding corner/room.
The proposed law, which was already passed for second reading, is anchored on Republic Act 10028, expanding the promotion of breast feeding, or the Expanded Promotion of Breastfeeding Act of 2009.
Awingan emphasized the Valley should initiate the mandate to become a character municipality in protecting the rights and privileges of mothers and newborn children.
"The body should take an active ordinance in giving the needs especially of the new born child and sensitivity for our women," Awingan said.
The proposal added breastfeeding is a gender-related concern and should be incorporated in the GAD Plan of all government offices and agencies.
If passed, the ordinance will be applied for government offices and private establishments within La Trinidad.
While the proposal will be made mandatory, the councilor explained the requirement will not be implied in the process of acquiring permits, rather those who will not abide will be subjected to penalty.
“We cannot command this law be included in the process of applying for permits especially for the private sector, however the collection of fines once found not conforming will be applied,” Awingan said.
In his proposal, violators of the proposed law will be penalized P1,500 for first offense; P2,000 for second offense; and P2,500 for third and subsequent offenses.