Under the Republic Act (RA) 10028, otherwise known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, companies operating in the country must protect working mothers by providing safe and healthful working conditions, facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare and help them realize their full potential. RA 10028 also aims to raise awareness and promote the importance of breastfeeding through continuing education efforts with various government agencies, professional and industry organizations.
The Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) held the 7th Breastfeeding Congress and 1st Asia Pacific Breastfeeding Congress, where they recognized various organizations that implement breastfeeding-friendly initiatives in the workplace. Accenture received recognition as a Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace for the company’s initiatives that support mothers in the workplace, reaffirming the company’s commitment to be the most inclusive and diverse employer in the information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) industry in the Philippines.
“Accenture is a people-driven company and the welfare of our employees is our top priority,” said Lito Tayag, country managing director of Accenture in the Philippines. “In addition to offering opportunities for our people to innovate and advance their careers, Accenture is committed to providing the best work environment — one that specifically addresses their personal needs.”
This commitment is showcased in the company’s efforts to support working mothers who tirelessly care for their children while pursuing a successful career in Accenture. The company’s offices across the country are equipped with breastfeeding rooms called Diana Rooms, where nursing mothers can relax and express their milk while at work. Accenture conducts education classes and monthly meet-ups for breastfeeding mothers. Employee volunteer mentors also work with local breastfeeding support groups to coach and guide mothers in their lactation journey. Accenture also provides mothers with relevant breastfeeding resource materials and e-books.
“Our community in Accenture is all about supporting and lifting each other up to be the best that we can be,” said Gwen Yason, Cebu lead of Accenture Technology in the Philippines. “That is why Accenture fosters inclusivity and equality in the workplace, encouraging our employees to achieve their professional and personal goals regardless of their age, ability or gender.”
Cebu Lead of Accenture Technology in the Philippines Gwen Yason (middle) accepts the Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace award from the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) at the recently concluded 7th Breastfeeding Congress and 1st Asia Pacific Breastfeeding Congress. The award was given to Accenture in recognition of its initiatives that support mothers in the workplace, highlighting the company’s commitment to be the most inclusive and diverse employer in the local IT-BPM industry. In the photo (from left to right) are Dr. Salvacion Gatchalian, President, Philippine Pediatrics Society; Kristine Barrenechea-Guanzo, Associate Director, Accenture Technology in the Philippines; Gwen Yason; Dr. Jamie Isip-Cumpas, Chair of the PPS Committee on Breastfeeding; and Tom Wagan, HR Talent Strategy Manager, Accenture in the Philippines.
Also read: Breastfeeding is more effective when both parents are involved
