MANILA, Philippines, Nov 6, (Agencies): Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan assured the city's parents that she would prioritize the well-being of Manileño children during their first 1,000 days of life.

Lacuna-Pangan made this commitment as she led the city's celebration of Children's Month, accompanied by Manila Social Welfare Department chief Re Fugoso and Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo-Nieto. She emphasized that the city government's primary policy is to provide the best possible care for the children of Manila.

In her speech, Lacuna-Pangan underscored the importance of upholding and respecting the rights of each child, including love, proper care, and support for their aspirations. She stressed the need to hone the potential of children and love them unconditionally.

Dr. Poks Pangan, Chief of the Manila Health Department (MHD), reported that 21,576 children had received complete vaccinations, and 26,220 children aged 12 to 59 months had received two doses of Vitamin A and deworming tablets from January to September 2023. Micronutrient supplements were also provided to pregnant women and children, along with the establishment of a Human Milk Bank for breast milk storage in Ospital ng Maynila, Justice Jose Abad Santos General Hospital, and Gat Andres Bonifacio Medical Center, in addition to the Supplemental Feeding Program.

The city government affirmed its active engagement in implementing programs and projects that address the needs of children, particularly in areas related to their health, education, training, well-being, and safety.