The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) announced that the newest facility at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA; TAG; RPSP) had been certified as a Mother-Baby Friendly Workplace (MBFW) by the Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, 14 May 2024.
The newly completed breastfeeding station, which opened in January 2024, underwent a rigorous DOH Accreditation process to comply with Republic Act No. 10028, or the “Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act.” The law, enacted in 2009, aims to promote and support breastfeeding practices in the Philippines. To achieve MBFW certification, the BPIA collaborated with DOH Regional 7 and the Provincial Health Office of Panglao, Bohol. This collaboration ensured that the breastfeeding station met DOH guidelines, which included providing a clean, private, and accessible space for mothers to breastfeed or express milk. Additionally, the DOH requires MBFW establishments to conduct breastfeeding education and counseling for nursing mothers. The BPIA fulfilled this requirement by organizing seminars specifically for nursing mothers who will be using the facility.
The certification process included seminars for nursing mothers and the submission of necessary documents. The breastfeeding station provides a comfortable space for mothers to nurse their babies while waiting for flights. There’s also a designated kid’s play area to keep young travelers entertained within the airport.
This accreditation signifies BPIA’s commitment to providing a passenger-centric experience that caters to the needs of all travelers, including families with young children. The availability of a Mother-Baby-Friendly certified breastfeeding station goes beyond mere convenience; it acknowledges the importance of breastfeeding for mothers and their babies. By creating a supportive environment for mothers to breastfeed or pump milk, BPIA is fostering a public health initiative that contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
The MBFW designation complements BPIA’s ranking as one of the top 10 busiest CAAP airports in the Philippines in 2023, with a passenger volume of 1.5 million. This achievement reflects BPIA’s dedication to continuous improvement and its focus on providing a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all passengers. By prioritizing the needs of mothers and children, BPIA is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leading airport in the region.