‘Nanay’ group launched at public library

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Nanays for Nanays, a community of caring mothers happily learning from each other, was launched last June 28 at the Cebu City Public Library and Information Center (CCPL) with a talk on First Aid and Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Registered nurse Jonnah Codilla Maningo shared her experiences and knowledge on lifesaving techniques for babies and children to 20 parents from Barangay Capitol Site.

"It is important that parents have basic knowledge and skill about first aid and CPR because this spells the difference between life and death especially in times of emergency," said Maningo, a Red Cross volunteer.

The talk was sponsored by MyJoy.

Cris Evert Ruffolo, founder and creative director of Cebu Nanays for Nanays, said more learning sessions are being lined up in the upcoming months.

The learning sessions will be held in different barangays and will be about practical themes and inspiring topics geared towards the improvement and empowerment of women, mothers and their allies.

"Cebu Nanays for Nanays started as an idea during the weekly Toddler Storytime sessions at the Children's Corner of the public library. We thought it will be a perfect opportunity for mothers to share their expertise to fellow mothers so we can learn from each other," said Ruffolo, a journalist and social development worker.

On July 16, a three-in-one event is organized in Barangay Taptap, a mountain village located 40 kilometers from Cebu City.

Louella Alix, celebrated Cebu culinary heritage book author, will give a talk and cooking demonstration to mothers. Members of the non-profit organization, Basadours, will handle the storytelling session with Day Care children.

The Cebu City Public Library, led by chief librarian Rosario "Ruth" Chua will turnover books to the barangay reading center.

"We are excited about these collaborations and looking forward to reach more barangays as we spread the joy of learning to every mother in this growing community," said Ruffolo.