The United Nations Population Fund distributed on Thursday P1.2 million worth of hygiene kits to pregnant and lactating mothers who were affected by tropical storm Sendong that hit Dumaguete City and some parts of the province of Negros Oriental last December 17.
The donations were received by the intended beneficiaries themselves during simple rites graced by their respective local government units officials.
In Dumaguete, 335 pregnant and lactating mothers received the hygiene kits from UNFPA representatives headed by Dysezebel Lado and in the presence of City Vice Mayor Alan Gel Cordova, Councilor JJ Esmena who represented the mayor, city health officer Dr. Ma. Sarah Talla, social welfare officer Marina Mendoza and Gov. Roel Degamo.
In an interview, Lado said, UNFPA has identified a total of 1,585 recipients who were severely hit by the storm and were living in evacuation centers. The rapid assessment was conducted by the agency upon the request of Gov. Degamo two days after “Sendong” hit the province last month.
One set consists of a “malong” or sari that can be used as a blanket, sanitary pads, underwear, toothbrush with toothpaste, laundry soap, a flashlight with battery, slippers, pail, and other toiletries.
Arlene Alano, UNFPA communications officer said, normally after a calamity, when food, shelter and clothing are already addressed, the needs of pregnant and lactating mothers are overlooked. Hence, the agency is focusing their intervention on them to prevent diseases and infections in evacuation centers.
She said this is far more important because “we are talking here of two lives, that of the mother and the child inside her womb”.
Governor Degamo made the request to prevent further loss of lives in hoping for a zero mortality rate among pregnant and lactating mothers who were affected by the tropical storm.
This is also in line with his centerpiece program on health under the MagDegamo Ta program. (PNA/JFP/Juancho Gallarde)
