Child advocates across the Philippines are calling for unified community efforts to protect children and youth through Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE). Despite ongoing debates, young voices emphasize the transformative impact of CSE on their lives.
“If you actually listen to children, we are all fighting for the same thing: a future where every child feels safe, respected, and empowered,” said Amihan Abueva, Regional Executive Director of Child Rights Coalition Asia, a network of organizations advocating for child rights in Asia.
Advocates from the Down to Zero Philippine Alliance gathered in Cebu in July 2024 to develop strategies for raising awareness about Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and preventing Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (SEC).
“Children believe that understanding their rights and responsibilities helps them protect themselves from harm and ensures better futures. Let’s not just pretend to listen but truly listen to what they have to say,” Abueva added.
Eloi, 14, highlighted the practical benefits of CSE, stating, “Mas mapapababa po yung case ng teenage pregnancy at mga na-aabuse.”
Shane, 15, elaborated, “Kung may knowledge ang mga children… they will know what’s the right thing to do at ano ang hindi gagawin.” CSE fosters a culture of respect, consent, and accountability beyond the classroom.
However, advocates point out gaps in access to accurate information. “As youth, we are using social media a lot to get information, including TikTok. Pero tama ba lahat iyon? Who will give us the right information?” Shane asked.
Some students noted the lack of structured lessons on teenage pregnancy in schools. “Prevention should have dedicated time instead of being randomly discussed in different subjects,” one advocate said.
The Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, currently under deliberation, aims to institutionalize CSE in schools nationwide.
“Hindi ba nila naiisip na if children are educated about sex at home and in school, we will delay sexual activity because we already know the consequences of early pregnancy?” Shantel, 17, questioned.
Children also recognize the critical role of parents and caregivers in providing guidance on SRHR and SEC. “Supporting children to prevent teenage pregnancy starts at home,” Shantel added.
Research shows that school-based sex education is most effective when complemented by parental involvement. “I want to be able to ask my parents questions about my body and feel safe,” another child advocate shared.
Abueva stressed the need for parents and caregivers to be trained to handle conversations about sex and children’s rights. “This support fosters a society where children can thrive without fear or misinformation,” she said.
Children assert that conversations about sex and sexuality are not inappropriate. “Ang pagtanong tungkol sa sex at sekwalidad ay hindi bastos. Huwag dapat mahihiyang magtanong o pag-usapan ito,” they said.
Marsel, 17, expressed optimism about the future, saying, “Hindi lang ang mga batang kaedad natin kundi pati ang next generation at pati rin ang ibang parents will be empowered and instilled with knowledge.”
Advocates are urging schools, families, policymakers, and civil society to unite in supporting the bill and integrating CSE into the education system.
Comprehensive Sexuality Education is more than academics—it’s a pathway to a safer, more inclusive society where children are safe, protected, and empowered to achieve their full potential.
