A global simultaneous breastfeeding event, “The Big Latch On” took place at the Vista Mall in the City of San Fernando on August 2, 2019.
More than 100 lactating mothers coming from different barangays of the capital city participated in the activity which was spearheaded by the City Health Office in partnership with the Soroptimist International Pampanga Star and with the support of the City Tourism Office.
“The Big Latch On” that marked its third year in the city, is a worldwide breastfeeding event where mothers congregate to breastfeed their children to promote and support breastfeeding.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Rowena Salas, Rural Health Unit 4 physician, warmly welcomed the participants and urged them to consistently practice breastfeeding as it brings good benefits to their children.
“Napakaganda po sa kalusugan ng mga bata at maging sa inyo po ang breastfeeding, kaya sana po ipagpatuloy po natin ito upang lumaking malulusog ang inyong mga anak,” Salas said.
A one-minute breastfeeding session was conducted, followed by raffle games with packages for mothers and babies as prizes.
A similar activity was also held at SM City San Fernando Downtown.
Part of the program was the discussion of the significance and benefits of breastfeeding led by Lovelyn Ocampo, breastfeeding advocate and member of Cabalen Oilers, and Dr. Maria Luisa Ruedas, Medical Officer IV of Pediatrics Department of Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital.
Along with the big latch on, is a trade fair dubbed “Kapampangan Mompreneur Fair” wherein entrepreneur moms gathered together to showcase a variety products such as food, arts, clothes, cosmetics and home accessories. It will run until August 4.
“The Big Latch On” is just one of the capital city’s ways in making Fernandinos healthy and fit.
In fact, various programs and activities on health and wellness towards a vigorous community are being conducted by the local government headed by Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago.
As what Santiago always says: “Walang maiiwan sa Syudad San Fernando. Nasa sinapupunan pa lamang ang sanggol hanggang sa paglaki niya ay may mga nakaabang nang programa para sa kanila.”
“The Big Latch On” will also be staged at Robinsons Starmills and SM Telabastagan this weekend.