It’s 2024. Pinays, are we discussing enough about our sexual and reproductive health and rights?

MANILA, Philippines — The issue of population explosion has been a longstanding concern among Filipino families, which also often leaves irreversible effects to women.

According to the 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (PNDHS), the country has seen a discernible decline in family size over the years, with an average of 1.9 children per woman. However, 42% of the surveyed married women and 59% of sexually active unmarried women still don’t use any contraceptive method, which underscores a significant unmet need for family planning services and education within this population.

While there is a noted decrease in teenage pregnancies, the data still reveals a concerning figure of 3,363 cases in 2022, emphasizing a considerable need for targeted interventions.

In essence, the data above proves one point: why it’s crucial for Pinays—from teens to adults—to empower themselves and take a closer examination of their sexual and reproductive health rights. This ensures that as they navigate the area of safety and pleasure, they are equipped with not just information but also the right protection.

Here, we share some for discussion and consideration.

Back in 2000, the city of Manila prohibited public health centers from providing essential contraceptives such as condoms, pills, intrauterine devices, surgical sterilization and other forms of “artificial contraceptives.”

This restriction affected economically disadvantaged women, depriving them of the opportunity to control and space the number of children they have.

Fortunately, this ban was lifted in 2008.

The Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10354) has been in existence for over a decade.

However, critics—including organizations like the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR)—argue that the RH Law lags behind global standards in reproductive health laws.

Concerns include the prohibition on national hospitals purchasing dedicated emergency contraceptives, and the mandatory requirement of parental consent for minors to access contraceptives without any exceptions.

Here’s a link to CRR’s Report on Philippines’ Compliance with its Human Rights Obligations in the