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AT A GLANCE:
Declaring the Second Week of May of Every Year as “Safe Motherhood Week”. (Proclamation No. 200, s. 2002)
In recognition of the fundamental right to health and the importance of safeguarding the well-being of women, especially during pregnancy and motherhood, the Philippines observes Safe Motherhood Week annually. Proclaimed by Proclamation No. 200, s. 2002, the second week of May is dedicated to raising awareness about maternal health and advocating for policies that support the welfare of mothers and their children.
The law says:
WHEREAS, Section 15, Article II, of the Philippine Constitution provides that “The state shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them”;
WHEREAS, Section 11, Article XII, of the Philippine Constitution provides that “The state shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost. There shall be priority for the needs of the underprivileged sick, elderly, disabled, women, and children”;
WHEREAS, Section 14, Article XII, of the Philippine Constitution provides that “The state shall protect working women by providing safe and healthful working conditions, taking into account their maternal functions, and such facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare and enable them to realize their full potential in the service of the nation”;
WHEREAS, the Filipino nation is faced with health problems that threaten the lives of the most vulnerable among our population — the large number of women and children that would be denied of their right to health care, nutrition, knowledge and education and better access to economic and social opportunities;
WHEREAS, six to nine million Filipino women are considered to be high risk should they become pregnant as they are either too young (less than 18 years old) or too old (above 35 years old), had four or more pregnancies; have too close or unspaced pregnancies (less than 15 months), and are concurrently ill;
WHEREAS, statistics have shown that our Maternal Mortality Rate (MRR) is 172 per 100,000 live birth or a total of 3,614 maternal deaths per year or 10 mothers dying per day due to pregnancy related complications, like hemorrhage, hypertensive complications, sepsis and abortion.
Legal Foundations
The establishment of Safe Motherhood Week is grounded in constitutional provisions that prioritize the health and welfare of all citizens, particularly women and children. Sections 15, 11, and 14 of Article II and XII of the Philippine Constitution underscore the state’s duty to ensure access to essential health services, prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations, and provide safe working conditions for women, considering their maternal functions.
Challenges in Maternal Health
Despite progress in healthcare, challenges persist in ensuring safe motherhood for all Filipinas. Statistics reveal significant risks faced by pregnant women, including those who are too young or too old, have multiple pregnancies, or suffer from concurrent illnesses. Alarmingly, the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) remains high, with thousands of maternal deaths occurring annually due to pregnancy-related complications.
Workplace Discrimination Against Working Mothers
In addition to health risks, many working mothers face discrimination in the workplace, hindering their ability to balance maternal responsibilities with professional obligations. Discriminatory practices may include denial of maternity leave, unequal pay, lack of lactation facilities, and limited career advancement opportunities.
Advocating for Workplace Policies
To address these challenges, it is imperative to implement workplace policies that protect the rights of working mothers and promote their well-being. These policies should include provisions for maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, breastfeeding support, and equal opportunities for career development. By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, employers can empower working mothers to fulfill their maternal duties while advancing their careers.
Read also:
Working Mother-Baby-Friendly Establishments under the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009
Laws Implemented in Favor of Women in the Last 20 Years
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