BY BENJAMIN CASPILLO III/UM Intern
IN CELEBRATION of Safe Motherhood Week, Barangay Catalunan Grande held its Buntis Congress on May 16 at the Monte Maria Gymnasium.
The Catalunan Grande Barangay Health Station organized the event in partnership with the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, the Department of Health-Davao Center for Health Development, and the City Health Office.
Nurse V Glorideta Oclarit, national immunization program manager, delivered the message of Dr. Ellenieta Herundina Maria Victoria Nunez Gamolo, regional director of the Department of Health – Davao Center for Health Development, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration.
“Let us work together, communities and healthcare providers, to prioritize and invest in the well-being of our beloved mothers. I urge each of you to actively support and advocate for safe motherhood initiatives in our region,” the message read.
The Buntis Congress provided various free health services, including basic laboratory tests, HIV screening, prenatal check-ups and ultrasounds, clinical breast exams, dental check-ups, nutritional assessments, and family planning counseling.
It also featured educational lectures on maternity, with discussions on maternal care, immunization, the importance of nutrition during pregnancy, and basic exercises for pregnant women.
Sofia San Luis, a seven-month pregnant resident of Catalunan Grande, expressed her appreciation for the initiative led by the local government.
“Dako ‘jud siya ug tabang pud sa amo nga ga hapit-hapit na manganak, nga ma-follow up pud mi ug walay bayad,” said Luis.
