Village Connect
Access to proper maternal healthcare remains a challenge for many families in underserved communities, making early intervention and support critical for both mothers and their children. Recognizing this need, PHINMA Foundation, PHINMA Education, and Bell-Kenz Foundation Inc. (BKFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., continue to strengthen maternal and child wellness through the First 1000 Days (F1KD) Maternal and Early Childhood Health Care Program.
Implemented initially in Cebu, the initiative focuses on providing comprehensive healthcare, nutrition assistance, and education to mothers and children during the crucial first 1,000 days of life—from pregnancy until a child reaches two years old. The program currently supports 70 mother-and-child beneficiaries, helping ensure that both mothers and infants receive the care they need during this vital stage of development.
For mothers like Angel Amosa and Mary Talledo, the program became a source of guidance and stability during challenging pregnancies. Both women were identified through community health assessments conducted by Southwestern University PHINMA and local Barangay Health Units. Through careful profiling, healthcare teams were able to prioritize expectant mothers who faced economic hardships and heightened health risks.
Once enrolled, beneficiaries gained access to regular prenatal consultations, laboratory monitoring, nutritional support, vitamins, and supplements. They also participated in health and parenting sessions led by medical professionals and nutrition experts.
Angel, who faced pregnancy without partner support and with limited financial resources, learned the importance of proper maternal nutrition through the program. Meanwhile, Mary benefited from close medical supervision after being diagnosed with elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Through dietary counseling and regular monitoring, she was able to improve her health and ensure a safer pregnancy compared to her previous experiences.
Beyond healthcare services, the F1KD program places strong emphasis on education and empowerment. Mothers are equipped with practical knowledge on breastfeeding, childcare, nutrition, and emotional preparedness, enabling them to make informed decisions for themselves and their children.
According to Heide Foulc of PHINMA Education, investing in maternal health creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.
“Healthy mothers lead to healthier families and stronger communities,” she said.
Through its Kaagapay sa Kalinga advocacy, Bell-Kenz Foundation continues to extend support even after childbirth by providing breastfeeding guidance, milk assistance, vitamin supplementation, and regular health monitoring for both mothers and children.
For Bell-Kenz Pharma, the initiative reflects a long-term commitment to addressing maternal and child nutrition challenges in the country.
According to Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma, “every mother deserves the opportunity to bring life into the world healthy, safely, and with dignity. This initiative reinforces Bell-Kenz Pharma’s thrust to make life better for all Filipinos.”
He adds, “with a program like F1KD, we aim to contribute towards helping solve the long-standing nutrition problem in the country. The program strives not only to provide quality maternal care, but also to empower mothers through education, proper nutrition, and continuous support.”
As the program continues to reach vulnerable communities, stories like Angel’s and Mary’s demonstrate how coordinated healthcare, education, and community support can help create healthier beginnings and brighter futures for Filipino families.
For more information about the F1KD program, visit www.bell-kenz.net.
Loading…