The “power of options” was highlighted during the country’s recent observance of World Contraception Day in Zamboanga City.
According to the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey, Filipino women, on average, have one child more than intended; the figures are highest among women from the lowest wealth quintile and lowest educational attainment.
Data showed roughly one in 10 women aged 15-19 have begun childbearing and 17 percent of women aged 15-49 want to practice family planning but do not have access to the methods.
This year, The Commission on Population and Development, in partnership with Bayer Philippines, staged the forum for Family Planning and Development. And the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society will bring the national celebration to the grass roots level.
Health and family planning services will be offered to individuals from barangays in Zamboanga City. The city will also be showcased as the second “Advocate City” for this year, as its unmet need for family planning increased from 21 percent in 2013 to 24.6 in 2017, according to the 2017 NDHS.
POPCOM executive director, Undersecretary Juan Antonio A. Perez III said, “Family planning is not just about access to contraceptives but also a human development issue, as we empower women and couples to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health and rights.”
Usec. Perez stressed that the government is determined to respect, promote, and ultimately fulfill the promise of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health law.
“FP (family planning) campaign materials launched today will be disseminated all over the country as part of our expanded mandate in the implementation of the Philippine Population Management Program. Working together with various stakeholders that have a common interest in family planning and sexual health is the best way to move forward. We believe that joining the World Contraception Day coalition is a strong effort in the implementation of the PPMP,” added Dr. Perez.
POPCOM together with its regional offices will organize local events such as health caravans, trainings, workplace orientations, press conferences, and social media campaigns with intensified strategies supported by various materials to generate widespread attention about family planning and World Contraception Day.
