The Women's Global Network for Reproductive Rights (WGNRR) stands firmly with advocates and civil society in the Philippines to demand the urgent passage of Senate Bill No. 1979, the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy Bill.
Despite the clear crisis with over 56,000 live births recorded among adolescent mothers in 2020, including children as young as 10 there is a looming threat of a presidential veto driven by misinformation. This contradicts the proven need for age-appropriate, medically accurate Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).
Why This Bill Matters:
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Protection, Not Just Prevention: The bill doesn't just aim to reduce unintended pregnancies; it institutionalizes social protections for adolescent parents.
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Combating Misinformation: With only 1 in 10 Filipino youth discussing sex at home, millions are left vulnerable to online exploitation and unsafe practices.
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Empowerment: CSE fosters understanding of consent and healthy boundaries, a crucial tool in preventing Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
We urge President Marcos Jr. and legislators to look at the evidence, not the fear-mongering. CSE does not increase risk-taking behavior; it delays sexual initiation and empowers young people to make informed, responsible choices.
It is time to protect our youth, not keep them in the dark.
Stand with us:
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Educate: Counter the myths surrounding CSE.
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Advocate: Call for the passage of Senate Bill 1979.
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Protect: Ensure every young Filipino has the right to health and information.
#WGNRR #DefendCSE #PassSB1979 #AdolescentHealth #SRHR #ProtectOurYouth #Philippines
