Did you know that nursing mothers can continue giving breastmilk to their babies even if they have to return to work after maternity leave? 

The revised Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF) recommends "breastfeed infants exclusively from birth up to 6 months then give appropriate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding for 2 years and beyond for optimum growth and development". 

The NGF was developed by nutrition experts led by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST).  

Working mothers who are lactating and resuming work can express breastmilk while in the workplace.  

Expressed breastmilk can be collected in sterile bottles and stored in the refrigerator or container insulated with ice. 

Breast milk stored in the refrigerator can last for 24 hours, while when stored in the freezer can last for 3 months. 

Caregivers at home can give expressed breastmilk while the mother is at work. 

In times when the mother and the baby are together, it is best to breastfeed from the mother. 

Breastfeeding promotes emotional bonding and loving relationship between the mother and the baby. 

Administrators of workplaces, public places like malls and even schools are enjoined to setup breastfeeding stations where mothers can either express breastmilk or practice breastfeeding with privacy. 

Let us promote, support, and practice breastfeeding. 

For more information on food and nutrition, contact Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Telefax: (02) 8372934, (02) 8273164, or call (02) 8372071 local 2296 or visit our website: http:www.fnri.dost.gov.ph (FNRI S&T Media Services: Press Release – CZARINA TERESITA S. MARTINEZ)