The Department of Health–Western Visayas (DOH-WV CHD) is pressing companies, schools, and public institutions to put up breastfeeding or lactation stations to ensure mother-baby friendly environments across the region.
The move enforces the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 (RA 10028), which requires workplaces and public spaces to support breastfeeding and rooming-in as national policies.
“Lactation stations must be fully equipped and free from infant formula promotions to foster exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months, and continued breastfeeding for two years and beyond,” Nurse Cedie Nicolas of DOH-WV CHD said in a recent Gender and Development Committee meeting.
Mother and child protection
Rooming-in — placing newborns in the same room with mothers from birth until discharge — is highlighted as essential to bonding and early breastfeeding.
The law also directs employers to create safe and supportive workplaces for nursing mothers, with education on milk expression, safe storage, and lactation support programs.
Sanctions and incentives
Non-complying establishments face heavy penalties:
₱50,000–₱200,000 for the first offense
₱200,000–₱500,000 for the second
₱500,000–₱1,000,000 and permit revocation for the third
Compliant organizations, on the other hand, may qualify for tax incentives.
Push for compliance
The DOH, as the lead enforcing agency, provides detailed guidelines under Department Circular No. 2011-0365 for institutions seeking Mother-Baby Friendly Workplace Certification.
“Supporting breastfeeding mothers is more than a legal duty — it is an investment in healthier families and stronger communities,” Nicolas stressed.IMT
