QC milk bank extends services, aids infants across Metro Manila

The Quezon City Human Milk Bank (QCHMB) has expanded its services beyond city residents, positioning itself as a “referral and support hub” for vulnerable infants across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

In a statement Wednesday, the QCHMB said that the majority, or 56%, of its milk supply in 2025 was distributed to non-residents.

The facility dispensed a total of 738,670 milliliters of pasteurized human milk to 496 infants in 2025.

Beneficiaries came from Manila, Mandaluyong, Bulacan, Caloocan, Makati, Rizal, and other areas.

“We gladly extend our help to mothers and infants in need, even beyond Quezon City. This is how we believe public health should work—cities supporting not only their own residents, but the most vulnerable wherever they may be,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

“Breastmilk is the best nutrition for infants. When mothers face challenges in providing it, the city government is here to step in. Every life nourished is hope restored,” she added.

The milk bank, which has more than 3,000 donors, collects and pasteurizes human milk for medically vulnerable infants.

The QCHMB accepts donations through the Quezon City General Hospital and Novaliches District Hospital via walk-ins, milk-letting drives, or scheduled pick-ups.

Donors undergo free screening for HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis, and all collected milk is pasteurized to ensure safe consumption.—MCG, GMA Integrated News