SM joins 1st fun run for breastfeeding advocacy

SM Supermalls has always been a strong advocate of breastfeeding. Pioneering 41 breastfeeding stations nationwide, SM believes in creating an environment that supports, protects and empowers breastfeeding mothers.

Last February 4, 2012, SM Supermalls’ Breastfeeding Committee took part in the first running campaign that focused on breastfeeding at SM Mall of Asia.  Dubbed as “Run to Save Lives! Run for Breastfeeding!” the 5K run and 2K walk event aimed not only to promote breastfeeding but also the proper infant and young child feeding practice.

Thousands of avid runners, athletes, mothers, and breastfeeding advocates gathered before the break of dawn to support the campaign. Every step that the participants took drew attention in raising awareness to improve child nutrition through breastfeeding.

Partnering with international and national organizations; Food and Agriculture Organization, International Labor Organization, UNICEF, World Food Programme and World Health Organization, Millennium Development Goals Achievement Fund-2030, Department of Health’s National Nutrition Council, speakers shared their experiences and gave inspirational talks to correct several breastfeeding misconceptions.

Dr. Jacqueline Badcock, United Nations’ Resident Coordinator, recommended that infants should be exclusively breastfed from birth to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond. Evidences on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and early initiation show that breastfeeding provides long-term benefits such as better protection against chronic disease, gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, allergies, diarrhea and neonatal sepsis. 

In addition, breastfeeding is the healthiest and most economical way to nourish a new born baby. “Breastfeeding is the best anti-poverty and anti-hunger strategy which is why it is so important for mothers to breastfeed.” said Assistant Secretary Maria-Bernardita Flores, Executive Director of the National Nutrition Council.

With these, SM joins the world in celebrating the profound experience of motherhood and national endeavor to support breastfeeding.