The maternal instincts of a Tacloban City policewoman kicked in after rescuing and breastfeeding an abandoned baby found at a playground of the Tacloban City Convention Center on 27 February 2026.
According to the Tacloban Tourist Police Unit, four children discovered the infant while playing in the area and immediately alerted the TPU personnel on duty.
The TPU officer quickly took and covered the baby, and personnel from the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of Tacloban City Police Station 1 arrived to assist.
PCpl. Gemarie Malquesto, WCPD PNCO, noticed that the baby was hungry. Without hesitation, she breastfed the infant, providing comfort until the child could be safely turned over. After a few minutes, the baby was brought to the City Social Welfare and Development Office for proper care and processing.
Police Col. Noelito A. Getigan, City Director, praised the officer’s actions:
“The women of the Tacloban Police are trained not only to enforce the law but also to assist women and children in dangerous situations. This shows their dedication and love for duty.”