Reduction of maternal mortality to be discussed on “Buntis Day”

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (POGS) is pushing for the reduction of death cases among pregnant women, as recent statistics revealed that maternal mortality rate in the country has increased.

During a press conference, POGS-7 Regional Director Dr. Charisse Espina-Tan said that they will be strengthening their campaign on safe pregnancy and responsible parenthood during the annual celebration of “Buntis Day.”

“It (the event) is in line with the organization’s thrust in decreasing maternal morbidity and mortality by educating pregnant women about their condition, how to take care of themselves and when to seek proper guidance,” she said.

“We have been celebrating this for over a decade now, part of the Presidential Proclamation No. 569,” she added.

On March 9, 2004, then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared March 10 of every year as “Araw ng Buntis,” also referred to as “Buntis Day,” in collaboration with the POGS Foundation, Inc.

Apart from the organization’s drive to educate women on pregnancy complications, it also aims to honor pregnant women, who are tagged as modern heroines.

 “Even men would agree, it is difficult to be a mother. Not only the pregnancy per se, but we would like to help them and celebrate with them that it is not just difficult being a mother but (it also brings) with great joy,” said POGS Cebu Chapter president Dr. Maria Virginia Abalos.

“This is what ‘Buntis Day’ is all about, educating them (pregnant women) and celebrating motherhood with them,” said Abalos.

The Global Health Observatory data noted on the World Health Organization website showed that maternal deaths in the Philippines in 1990 was estimated to reach 2,200; 2,700 in 1995; 2, 800 in 2000; 2,900 in 2005 and 3,000 in 2013.

With this, Cebu City will be hosting the annual nationwide celebration of Buntis Day. Cebu was able to host the celebration in 2005.

The event will take place on March 10, Tuesday, at the Ayala Terraces Center, 10 a.m. to 3 pm.

Dr. Maria Luz Cambonga, Safe Motherhood Committee of POGS Cebu Chapter, said there are already around 400 pre-registered pregnant participants.  — (FREEMAN)