At Dr Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) in Kalibo, Aklan, care for the tiniest patients is a community effort—one that involves healthcare workers, local government, and families. As one of the recipient hospitals of the Care for the Small Babies (CSB) programme of WHO Philippines, DRSTMH champions life-saving care for babies born too soon or too small. Babies born prematurely may have underdeveloped bodies, which can lead to health challenges.
The CSB programme focuses on early essential newborn care for vulnerable infants, with key interventions such as Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) and support for breastfeeding. KMC involves placing a premature or low birthweight baby, born in fair condition, on the mother's chest immediately after birth, or skin-to-skin contact, helping regulate the baby’s temperature, ward off infections, and promote bonding and breastfeeding. This programme gives babies a fighting chance for survival and healthy development, while also caring for the physical and mental well-being of mothers.
The programme’s impact is demonstrated by promising national progress. The recently published, Trends in Maternal Mortality report shows a significant decline in maternal deaths in the Philippines — from 2000 to 2023, the number has dropped from 116 to 84 maternal deaths per 100, 000 live births. This figure reflects not only improvements in healthcare but also growing awareness of maternal health as a vital priority.
“The journey of pregnancy and childbirth must be safe,” said Dr Rui Paulo de Jesus, WHO Representative to the Philippines. “These are milestones for every family, and we must ensure our healthcare system fully supports mothers, babies, and their families along the way.”
Dr de Jesus also stressed the need for accessible health centres that deliver essential services and continuous health promotion. He pointed to DRSTMH as a shining example of how facilities and communities can champion maternal and newborn care.
/countries/philippines/small-babies-facility.tmb-1024v.jpg?Status=Master&sfvrsn=5cb8620d_1 "Small Babies facility")
Dr Rui Paulo de Jesus visits the Care for the Small Babies facility at Dr Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital. © WHO/Cling Malaco
A community of mother and carers making services and information available and accessible
An informed and engaged community can help make pregnancy and childbirth safe on top of available services. The CSB programme at DRSTMH stands as a living example of community care and support. What makes it even more effective is that many of the mothers involved are also healthcare providers themselves, bringing both professional expertise and personal experience to the programme.
“I’m a medical doctor and a new mom, and I thought I knew everything because of my medical training. But it’s a completely different experience when you go through it yourself,” shared Dr Leslie Sedillo, Provincial Health Officer and In-Charge of DRSTMH Operations. “Practising Kangaroo Mother Care really helped our baby a lot.” Through constant skin-to-skin contact and exclusive breastfeeding, KMC helped stabilise her baby’s breathing and temperature, supported steady weight gain, and reduced the risk of infections—outcomes especially vital during the vulnerable neonatal stage.
Healthcare workers like Dr Sedillo play a crucial role in making sure families receive accurate and timely information about caring for low birthweight babies and preventing newborn complications. She emphasised that KMC is a simple yet powerful practice that can be done by anyone in the family. “Whether it’s the mother, father, or even the grandmother or grandfather — anyone can do KMC,” she explained.
/countries/philippines/practising-kangaroo-mother-care.tmb-1024v.jpg?Status=Master&sfvrsn=4f7cbe24_1 "Practising Kangaroo Mother Care")
Dr Daystar Sedillo, husband of Dr. Leslie Sedillo, is practising Kangaroo Mother Care with their newborn. © Dr Leslie Sedillo
Collaboration and commitment in reducing low birthweight mortality
As of 2023, Dr Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital has achieved an impressive 30 percent reduction in the low birthweight mortality rate with the support of the Care for the Small Babies programme, a collaboration between WHO, the Department of Health and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
/countries/philippines/kangaroo-mothe-care-unit-at-a-hospital-in-kalibo-aklan.tmb-1024v.jpg?Status=Master&sfvrsn=8fc8bc43_1 "Kangaroo Mother care unit at a Hospital in Kalibo Aklan")
The Kangaroo Mother Care Unit at Dr Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital in Kalibo, Aklan. © WHO/Gato Borrero
“KOICA Philippines has long prioritised maternal and child health in partnership with the Philippine government. This collaboration between Korea and the Philippines goes beyond development, as we work together to build trust. We will continue our lasting friendship by investing in health and the future generation,” said Ms Hyung Won Lee, KOICA Assistant Country Director.
Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted the government's role in addressing maternal deaths through strengthened health systems. “We are committed to ensuring that every mother receives compassionate, respectful, and life-saving care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. We are focused on further reducing maternal deaths in the
With a dedicated community of carers and continued support from health authorities and partners, DRSTMH shows the way forward by demonstrating that with compassion, commitment, and care—mothers and babies can live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Media Contact:
Cling Malaco
Communications Officer
0928-501-2064
cmalaco@who.int