BALANGA CITY, Bataan — The Department of Health (DoH) and the Balanga City Health Office have hailed SM City Bataan as a Mother and Baby-Friendly Workplace.

The validation for the Mother and Baby-Friendly Workplace was conducted by the DoH Central Luzon Center for Health Development at the said mall on 19 March 2025.

The health officials assured that the mall has lactation/breastfeeding areas.

The Bataan Provincial Health Office, PDOHO-Bataan and the Balanga CHO accompanied the validating team from DoH Central Luzon, with the mall passing the Mother and Baby-Friendly Workplace certification.

Balanga CHO cited, “We are proud to recognize SM City Bataan for successfully completing the Facility Assessment for the Mother and Baby-Friendly Workplace Certification.”

“This achievement reflects your commitment to promoting the well-being of mothers and their little ones, in line with Republic Act 10028, also known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009,” the BHO stated.

In a statement, the SM City Bataan said, “SM Supermalls continues to uphold its commitment to inclusivity and care by ensuring its facilities meet the highest standards set by the Department of Health (DoH).”

“As part of this initiative, SM malls feature dedicated breastfeeding stations and SM Cares Milk Depots, providing mothers with safe, clean and thoughtfully designed spaces to nurse their infants,” according to the statement.

SM City Bataan has breastfeeding stations are equipped with comfortable seating, well-maintained facilities and discreet enclosures, allowing mothers to breastfeed in privacy and comfort. The mall fosters a stress-free and supportive environment, so that mothers can take care for their little ones while in the mall.

“Through initiatives like these, SM Supermalls plays a vital role in building a healthier and more family-friendly community.”