TUBOD, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--As part of the celebration of Family Planning Month, five pregnant mothers in the province took center stage as symbols of beauty and grace during the "Gandang Buntis LaNorte 2023" pageant.

Beyond the dazzling outfits and radiant smiles, the pageant aimed to educate the public on the paramount importance of responsible family planning.

The pageant, which the Provincial Health Office and the Provincial Population Office organized in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH), highlighted the provincial government's unwavering commitment to family planning.

From production numbers to summer wear, maternity dresses, and traditional Malong attire, the pregnant mothers highlighted their unique beauty and charisma.

Empowerment for mothers

Rachel Buenaflor, a 34-year-old mother representing the municipalities of Salvador, Nunungan, Lala, Kapatagan, Sapad, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo, was crowned Gandang Buntis Lanao Norte 2023. With tears of happiness, she shares her inspiring journey as a mother to two children, and she is currently expecting her third. Her story not only shines a light on the importance of family planning but also serves as an empowering example for mothers everywhere.

As a mother who embraced family planning, Rachel is determined to use the pageant as a platform to encourage others.

"Super bulahan ug malipayon. Happy kaayo kay tanang effort nako, nakuha nako tanan. Like me, nga nag-family planning, gina-encourage nako na mag-family planning para mahatag nato tanan para sa atong anak ug maatiman nato og sakto [Super blessed and happy. I am very happy because all my efforts have paid off. Like me, who does family planning, I encourage you to do family planning so that we can provide everything for our children and take care of them properly]," she added.

Other pregnant mothers also shared their voices during the pageant, inspiring others to embrace the values of family planning and responsible parenthood.

Gandang Buntis LaNorte 2023 1st runner-up Michaela Gaces Paculanang, representing the towns of Bacolod,Tangcal, Maigo, and Kolambugan, expressed her deep appreciation for the government's efforts in promoting family planning methods. She emphasized that government initiatives play a crucial role in raising awareness about responsible parenthood.

Meanwhile, Gandang Buntis LaNorte 2023 2nd runner-up Rosalie Baguioso Laguno, hailing from Pantao Ragat, Pantar, Baloi, and Tagoloan cluster, carried a spirit of resilience and hope. For her, her role in helping her community understand the importance of family planning extends beyond the pageant stage.

"With proper child spacing as a mother, I will give each child enough care and proper guidance," said Gandang Buntis LaNorte Tourism Analyn Jayme, representing Kauswagan, Matungao, Munai, Poona Piagapo, and Linamon towns.

Moreover, Gandang Buntis LaNorte Charity Jessa Barbon Canamo, representing the towns of Magsaysay, Baroy, Tubod, believes that motherhood is not just about bringing children into the world but also about understanding and meeting their needs.

Biyaheng Kalusugan 

DOH, in partnership with the Commission on Population and Development, the Center for Health Development-Northern Mindanao, the World Health Organization, USAID ReachHealth, and the United Nations Population Fund, conducted a Biyaheng Kalusugan health caravan.

The caravan featured enlightening sessions on family planning, providing valuable insights and information for couples. In addition to these educational sessions, couples had the opportunity to partake in enjoyable games and entertainment activities offered at different booths.

DOH and the provincial government strongly urged couples to explore various family planning methods for the well-being of both mothers and children.

 "As for family planning, it’s not only you want to have fewer children, but it’s also for the health of the mother and the child. That's why we have to have child spacing," said Gov. Imelda "Angging" Dela Cruz Quibranza.

Meanwhile, DOH Health Promotion Bureau officer-in-charge director Rodley Desmond Daniel Carza underscored the significance of a collaborative approach to family planning, highlighting that it is not an individual decision but rather a matter that involves both partners in a relationship.

"Family planning is not an individual decision. It’s a decision for both couples. It’s a discussion that needs to happen within the family at kailangan mag plano kung paano natin ipractice ang family planning," he said.

Empowering mothers and promoting responsible family planning are essential steps towards creating a brighter future for children and communities. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)