RC Makati-RC Cagayan de Oro Partnership to Support First 1,000 Days

It has been widely emphasized that the first 1,000 days—from conception to a child’s second birthday—are the most critical period for a child’s development. During this time, the brain, body, and immune system experience rapid growth, making proper nutrition and care essential. Recognizing this, DG Prescy Yulo called upon Rotary Clubs to support initiatives that focus on this crucial stage.

In response, RC Makati took action and reached out to RC Cagayan de Oro, its brother club, which identified a pressing issue in their community—the rising number of adolescent mothers. With over 1,400 pregnant teenagers in Cagayan de Oro, there is a growing need to provide these young mothers with proper healthcare, nutritional support, and education to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

On March 1, the RC Makati team, led by Pres. Keith & Rachel Harrison with PN Howie Calleja, PND Chris Ferareza, and CoS Ron, flew to Cagayan de Oro to officially launch the project. After a quick lunch, the team headed straight to the City Hall grounds to launch the project entitled First 1,000 Days: Empowering Adolescent Mothers.

During the short program, Pres. Neil Que of RC Cagayan de Oro encouraged young people to stay strong, while Cagayan de Oro Mayor Rolando A. Uy, in a message read by City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario Raagas, expressed his support. “With the strong partnership between the city government and the Rotary Clubs of Cagayan de Oro and Makati, we are sure this program will continue. It will help young mothers and their children have a better and more secure future. Let’s work together to make sure no young mother is left behind and every child gets the care, education, and protection they deserve,” he said.

Pres. Keith highlighted the vital role of the First 1,000 Days in shaping a child’s health and future. First Ann Rachel emphasized the importance of education and completing their studies for adolescent mothers, empowering them to build a better future. PN Howie reaffirmed the Club’s commitment to supporting the program, ensuring the successful completion of the First 1,000 Days.

With a total funding of P300,000—P260,000 co-funded by RC Makati and the balance, along with coordination, covered by RC CDO, this project provides access to sexual and reproductive health services, prevents early and repeat pregnancies, and helps 50 young mothers reintegrate into school. It also offers financial assistance, promotes responsible parenthood, and delivers tailored interventions for their well-being. Through this initiative, we empower these young women to build healthier futures for themselves and their children.

This project clearly addresses the First 1,000 Days of children, particularly in supporting young mothers in taking care of their children.