City Ordinance No. 971 series of 2021 also known as the creation of the Malaybalay City Human Milk Bank has been officially signed on May 5, 2021. Authored by City Councilor Niko P. Aldeguer, the ordinance is considered to be the first in Bukidnon.

Mayor Florencio T. Flores, Jr. expressed his full support of the said ordinance and led the ceremonial signing along with the presence of Vice Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran held at the People’s Hall, this City.

Flores, who is a doctor by profession, said that there is no argument needed as quoted in the saying, “breastmilk is the best milk for babies.” He emphasized the importance of this law to support infants and children in need of breastmilk as the government continues to combat malnutrition and diseases.

Councilor Aldeguer through his personal experience as a parent saw the need to establish this kind of facility. He said he was inspired to legislate this in order to aid other mothers who could not provide breastmilk for their babies due to varying circumstances. He also stressed that it can save lives and ensure health and nutrition among children who need it the most.

City Health Office (CHO) through the Nutrition Section thanked the Sangguniang Panlungsod for approving the ordinance. The event was attended by CHO-Nutrition staff, barangay nutrition scholars, midwives from different barangays and members of Breast Friends group in the City.

According to Breastfeeding and Nutrition advocate from CHO, breastmilk being dubbed as the liquid gold will boost immunity and provide protection against infections and diseases during early stages of the children.