The passage of Republic Act 11148 or the First 1000 Days Law provides the enabling environment for the sustained provision of critical early child care interventions for the first 1000 days of a child’s life, for optimal growth and development for the goodness of the future of the children and the country.
Kiwanis International, Philippine Luzon District, Division 3A, KC McKinley applied the RA 11148 in their activities or one of their signature projects headed by its President, Dr. Rocaya Vanessa Mangondato.
She started with 20 expectant mothers this year and on its 2nd check up today, February 22, 2023 at Marawi Street in Maharlika Village, Taguig and attended by the head of the division, Lieutenant Governor, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.
Dr. Rocaya did a much needed check up to these expectant mothers, discussed what to do to be healthy, gave gifts and snacks. Her club under Kiwanis called this activity, “Baby Shower.” 
The monitoring started the moment the expectant mothers reported in her clinic. All check ups are free of charge that includes also giving free vitamins. The program is every two months but there’s also monthly consultations.
The first 1,000 days refers to a child’s life from the moment they are conceived until they reach 2 years of age (24 months). This is a time when their brain, body and immune system grows and develops significantly.
According to Atty. Joey Lina who is the chairman of an Alliance to fight malnutrition or Child’s first 1000 days coalition, it is very important to monitor the health of the mother and the child.
According to experts, during pregnancy, the health, nutrition and stress levels of the mother can have an effect on baby’s future.
According to Grace Bondad Nicolas, who had a nutritionist when she’s pregnant with twins, after the baby is born, their physical environment, nutrition and relationships can have a lifelong impact on their health and wellbeing.
In their first 1,000 days, the baby will need healthy food, time to play, loving relationships, safety and security and a healthy environment.
