Empowering Mothers, Honoring Women: Navotas City Hospital Celebrates 22nd National Buntis Day for International Women’s Month
NAVOTAS CITY – March is a month dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and vital contributions of women worldwide. Today, March 10, 2026, Navotas City Hospital (NCH) and the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (POGS) CAMANAVA Sector honored this global movement by hosting the 22nd National Buntis Day, specifically focusing on the foundational role of motherhood in the community.Under the leadership of POGS CAMANAVA President Dr. Pia Marie V. Utitco, the event was held at the 4th Floor Multimedia Auditorium of Navotas City Hospital. The event served as a cornerstone of the hospital’s International Women’s Month calendar, emphasizing that maternal health is a fundamental pillar of women's empowerment. The morning was graced by esteemed leaders who reaffirmed the city's commitment to its female constituents. Dr. Spica Acoba, Medical Director of NCH, warmly welcomed the participants, emphasizing the hospital's role as a sanctuary for maternal care. Joining the celebration, Honorable Mayor John Rey Tiangco visited and came to personally deliver his congratulatory remarks, and offering his steadfast support to the expectant mothers of Navotas. Furthering the warm reception, City Administrator and previous medical director of NavCH , Dr. Christia Padolina also graced the event and delivered an inspiring message and the origins of Buntis Day. While, special guest POGS NCR Regional Director, Dr. Marinella Abat, witnessed and graced the event, lending national significance to this local milestone.
A Global Theme, Local Action. In line with the spirit of International Women’s Month, the event—themed “Traditional Roots and Innovation in Nurturing Mothers”—focused on providing our patients from the NCH OB-OPD with the tools, knowledge, and medical care they need to thrive. Organizers joined together recognizing that empowering a woman begins with ensuring her health and dignity during one of the most transformative periods of her life.
Bridging the Gap in Maternal Healthcare. To celebrate the "Innovation" aspect of the theme, a total of seventy one (71) patients received the free ultrasound screenings by one of the sponsors Technomed - Mindray. Three expert sonologists led by Dr. Krizelda Timbang Ng, Dr. Maria Corina Lumapas and Dr. Catherine Faye Daos from the Philppine Society of Ultrasound Obstetrics and Gynecology) – PSUOG, ensured that these women received high-quality diagnostic care, a right that is central to women's reproductive health.
Education as Empowerment.True to the advocacy of Women’s Month, the program featured "Lay Forums" designed to give women agency over their own bodies and futures:
- Kwentuhang Buntis: Dr. Dhanielle Garcia-Ramos discussed prenatal goals, encouraging women to be active participants in their healthcare journeys.
- Usap Tayo sa Family Planning: Dr. Arianne Onilla led a vital conversation on reproductive rights and family planning, empowering women to make informed choices for their families.
- Holistic Wellness: The Nutrition and Dietetics Services of Navotas City Hospital provided guidance on maternal nutrition, ensuring these women are equipped to nurture the next generation thru interactive mini games held at the booth area
A Community United for Women. The festive atmosphere was bolstered by a network of partners—Exeltis, ADP, Metropharma, Corbridge, Evexia, Fonterra, Biofemme, and Technomed- Mindray—who provided generous giveaways and raffle prizes. Lucky participants took home strollers, essential baby items, and 3,000 worth of gift certificates, easing the financial transition into motherhood.
Honoring the Navoteña Mother.As the 22nd National Buntis Day concluded with a total of 95 patients in attendance. The message imparted was clear: honoring women means protecting their health. By celebrating Buntis Day during International Women’s Month, Navotas City Hospital reaffirms its commitment to every Navoteño, ensuring that the journey of motherhood is met with expert care, community support, and unwavering respect.
