A group of mothers and youth advocates called on the Senate to pass the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy (PAP) bill as a “Christmas gift” to Filipino families.
Women’s groups and reproductive health advocates gathered at the Senate on Tuesday morning to launch the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children (VAWC) while pushing for the passage of the PAP bill.
The demonstrators expressed their support for Sen. Risa Hontiveros, the bill’s primary sponsor and chair of the committee on women and children.
“All we want for Christmas is a PAP. For youth to enjoy the holidays and not be burdened by teenage pregnancy,” said Judy Ann Miranda, secretary general of Partido Manggagawa (PM).
The rally included members of the PM Women’s Committee, PM-Kabataan, and Tara Kabataan, a Manila-based youth organization.
Dressed in Christmas-themed outfits and holding lanterns with holiday messages, the participants sang carols featuring lyrics advocating for the bill and against VAWC.
Teen pregnancy remains a pressing issue in the Philippines, particularly among those aged 10 to 19. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2021 revealed that 10% of births in the country were from young mothers. Despite ongoing programs, rates of adolescent pregnancy remain high, with adverse effects on health, education, and society.
“It is clear that early pregnancy poses severe challenges,” said Eunice Santiago, an advocate from Tara Kabataan and PM Kabataan.
“Many young mothers are forced to drop out of school due to discrimination not just in education institutions but also on social media and from healthcare workers. Early pregnancies increase health risks, including complications, repeat pregnancies, and limited access to affordable, humane health services. Additionally, many cases stem from statutory rape—a clear form of violence against children,” Santiago explained.
Santiago emphasized that adolescent pregnancy is not merely the result of impulsiveness but a complex societal issue requiring collective action from families, schools, and the government.
The PAP bill seeks to address these challenges with three key objectives:
- Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): Age- and culturally appropriate education on sexuality, reproductive health, and consent to equip youth with accurate information.
- Social Protection Services: Maternal health services, home-based schooling, PhilHealth coverage, and counseling to support young parents and combat stigma.
- Access to Reproductive Health Services: Ensuring youth aged 16-18 have direct access to accurate information and health services under professional guidance.
While the PAP bill has gained significant support, it remains pending for interpellation and voting in the Senate.
“This is the right time to strengthen the call for this law,” Santiago concluded.
“The PAP bill is a crucial step toward protecting the youth from violence, promoting women’s rights, and building a humane and just society. It ensures proper information, support, and protection for the future of our youth. Let’s make this a gift of unity and responsibility for Filipino families this Christmas.”
