BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, August 19 (PIA) — The Commission on Population (POPCOM) conducted a search for the symbolic 100 millionth babies in the Philippines which started last July 27, 2014 as the country expected to hit the 100 million mark in its population on that day.

Some selected staff of the POPCOM had been assigned to guard the number of births in public hospitals on that day starting from 12:06 A.M. On the same date, Jodie M. Cervantes of Brgy, H., Borongan City, was born and was hailed as one of the symbolic 100 millionth babies in the country.

In an interview with PIA, Mr. Mark Lucio Cortado, Jr., City Population Officer of Borongan City Population Office said that “in August 11, 2015 we conducted a ceremonial awarding and belated birthday celebration with POPCOM Regional Director Elnora Pulma as guest”.

Aside from Dir. Pulma, also present during the ceremonial awarding was the Regional Staff of POPCOM, City Mayor, Hon. Mayor Fe R. Abunda; City Administrator, Dayan Agda; Dr. Ethel Lagria, City health Officer, Mr. Lucio Contado, City Population Officer, Police Supt. Matthe L. Aseo, Borongan City Chief of Police, Department Heads of LGU-Borongan, staff and other guests.

In her special message, Mayor Abunda said that she is happy to know that a Boronganon baby was honored to be selected as one of the symbolic 100 millionth babies of the country.

Cortado further disclosed that during the program, some government offices and generous benefactorsgave gifts to baby Jodie. Philippine Health Insurance Corporation- Borongan City, bestowed on baby Jodie a lifetime PhilHealth membership.

Dr. Anne Ocfemia committed to give a free dental check-up program to the child good for five years. Lastly, Dr. Elizabeth Gorgonia, owner of Borongan Children’s clinic, also committed to give free medicines and a well-and-unwell medical check-up for the child good for two years. (asj/sdc/PIA8-ESamar )