Ninety expectant mothers from Itogon gathered on May 10, 2024, at the Fianza Memorial Gymnasium in Poblacion to participate in the annual “Buntis Congress.” This year’s theme, “Womb to the World: Shaping Futures in the First 1000 Days,” underscored the significance of early maternal and child healthcare.
Spearheaded by the Municipal Health Services Office under the leadership of Dr. Oliver Guadaña, the Buntis Congress aims to provide essential educational and medical services to pregnant women.
The event was graced by Mayor Bernard S. Waclin and Councilor Alejandro Palangdan, the committee chairperson on health, who showed their support for expectant mothers. They also facilitated the distribution of ‘buntis and newborn kits’ comprising newborn clothes, blankets, sanitary items, and maternity pads.
Rural Health Physician Dr. Marie Jorelyn Bahingawan delivered a comprehensive lecture on the importance of healthcare and childcare during and after pregnancy. She covered topics such as prenatal care and other crucial information necessary for ensuring healthy and safe pregnancies.
Medical checkups and laboratory services were provided by MHSO personnel to each participant, ensuring that expectant mothers received necessary health assessments and screenings.
Highlighting this event was the “Buntis Got Talent’ competition, where pregnant women from nine barangays showcased their talents in dancing, singing, and acting.
Mercy Comedies from Ampucao claimed the title, earing a cash prize of P10,000. Jonalyn Lamsis from Gumatdang secured the second position, winning P8,000, while Vilma Dimot from Dalupirip came in third, receiving a prize of P6,000. Additionally, all winners were awarded a baby carrier to support their journey into motherhood.
