Breastfeeding To Be Integrated in Philippines Curriculum

 DepEd Order #80 s 2012


Strengthening the Integration of breastfeeding Education in the curriculum, setting up and sustaining the operation of lactation stations in schools and compliance with executive no. 51

1. Pursuant to Republic Act no 10028 also known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, the DepED reiterates its full support for the governments campaign to promote the practice of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is duly recognized to benefits the health of infants, mother-child bonding and the public health services system, among other positive longer term implications for society as a whole.

2. In this regard, all school officials are directed to set up lactation stations, in their respective jurisdictions as well as strenthen, sustain and enhance the same.. Lactation statios mush be equipped with a lavatory for hadwashing, a refreigerator for storing expressed breask milk, electrical outlets for breas pumps, a small table and comfortable seats.

3. School officials are also enjoind to further intensify and strengthen the integration of breasfeeding education in the curriculum, specifically in relevant subjects in the elementary and secondary levels as requred in section 15 of the same law.

4. In compliance with E) no 51 dated Oct 20, 1986 entitled adopting a National Code of marketing of breasmilk Substitutes, Breastmilk Supplements and other Related Products, Penalizing Violation Thereof and for other purposes, school officials are enjoined to strengthen the prohibtition of the ff;

a. posting and distribtuion of advertisement, promotion or marketing of infant forumula and related products.

b. distribution ofmilk samples and supplies by companies manufacturing infant formula products and
c. donations from manufacturers and distributors of such products, among others in the school setting.

d. Moreover, school officials are enjoined to engage the active participation of parents and other members of the community in the breasfeeding camapgin. This is expected to transform the rol of families and the community in an effor to improve children healt