Seventy-one (71) pregnant women including teenage moms from the barangays of Pilar joined this year’s Buntis Congress anchored on the theme “Usapang Young Moms” on May 6, 2022 at Parau Hall B & C, 3rd floor Municipal Building, LGU-Pilar Complex, Calongay, Pilar, Sorsogon.

 

LGU-Pilar, through its Municipal Health Office (MHO) conceptualized this initiative to increase awareness on maternal health and family planning and to promote the package of health services among pregnant women in the municipality.

 

Alongside, the Department of Health (DOH) and Rural Health Unit (RHU) nurses and midwives were also gathered on May 5, 2022 for clinical updates and basic OB Management for health workers.

 

Resource speakers gave a lecture on nutrition in pregnancy, safe motherhood, prenatal counseling, Philhealth Benefits for women about to give birth, importance of pregnant laboratory, newborn screening (NBS), immunization to young children, breastfeeding, and the importance of giving birth in accredited health facilities. Gender-based issues and action planning was also tackled by the Office of the Gender and Development.

 

The Buntis Congress is an innovation of the municipality that aims to improve the survival of women during pregnancy, prevent maternal death and promote quality of life.

 

The participants likewise enjoyed the search for the best young mom and at the same time gained knowledge on the topics discussed.

 

A service caravan was also conducted and free personal hygiene package was given to the expectant mothers.

 

The activity is spearheaded by Ma. Luisa C. Manalang, Midwife II to exemplify her commitment to address the rising number of young moms in the municipality.

 

Moreover, the LGU Pilar Municipal Health Office is open to accommodate the pregnant women in the municipality for pre-natal check-ups and other maternal care services.