Public Information Office (PIO) of the Batangas provincial government released a statement saying on Tuesday they need “breast milk and breast milk pouches” for babies who are currently in evacuation centers due to Taal Volcano eruption.
Vocalist Saab Magalona is among breastfeeding mothers who responded to the call. Magalona posted on Twitter, “I have breastmilk but need help with sending to Batangas! Help!”
Magalona is still breastfeeding after giving birth to her second child Vito in September.
In less than an hour, Saab tweeted an update saying she found a way to do so.
“UPDATE: Already found somebody who can transport my milk!! Thanks, guys!!!” she wrote.
Also read: Vegetables, fruits with ashfall safe to eat- DOH
Calling all padede moms: Taal baby victims in need of breast milk
Meanwhile, DOST CALABARZON reminded the public that “donating infant formula, breastmilk substitutes, feeding bottles, artificial nipples and teats during emergencies” is prohibited and violates the Philippine Milk Code (Executive Order 51).
DOST noted that the following prohibited products might “put infants at greater risk of illness and death.”
“Diluted preparation of milk powder is common to make the powder last longer, contributing to both acute and chronic malnutrition. This puts infants at even greater danger post-disaster when clean water is not available, bottles cannot be cleaned, and congestion and lack of toilet facilities in evacuation centres make for extremely harsh environments,” a part of the statement read.
Those who want to donate breast milk and breast milk pouches may contact Ms. Weng Casabuena of PSWDO at 09198042398.