The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development, in partnership with the Albay Provincial Health Office, conducted joint monitoring of private birthing centers across the province from February 9 to 13 to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare services.
The five-day activity focused on compliance with national standards and the quality of care provided to mothers and infants.
Areas assessed included the accuracy of clinical documentation, safety and adequacy of facilities, adherence to the Philippine Milk Code, and proper implementation of newborn screening protocols.
Health officials said strict compliance with the Milk Code helps protect breastfeeding practices and ensures timely screening for congenital conditions.
Albay Provincial Health Office Safe Motherhood Program Coordinator, Ma. Julien O. Garcia stressed that maintaining high standards in birthing centers is crucial to accessible community-level maternal care.
Monitoring teams reviewed patient records, inspected equipment and delivery rooms, and assessed infection prevention and control measures.
The Department of Health said the results will guide technical assistance, capacity-building efforts, and policy recommendations.
The initiative supports broader efforts to reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths in the province.
Source: Albay PIO