MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Win Gatchalian is calling for a two-pronged approach to address the issue of teenage pregnancy in the Philippines, urging for both strengthened comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and increased social protection for teenage mothers.
“Teenage mothers are being denied the opportunity for a proper education, and repeat pregnancies could be a sign of abuse,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
“We need to hold accountable those who prey on young girls and ensure these young mothers are given a second chance,” he added.
Gatchalian’s proposal comes after a report by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) revealed that over 22,000 teenagers, particularly those between 13 and 15 years old, have experienced repeat pregnancies.
The CPD cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a contributing factor, but also highlighted cultural aspects.
The report noted instances where teenage mothers are forced to cohabitate with the fathers of their children, who are often significantly older.
This unequal power dynamic raises concerns about potential abuse, according to the CPD.
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, believes that keeping girls in school is crucial.
He proposes bolstering CSE programs and ensuring access to child protection services within educational institutions.
He further emphasizes the importance of reintegrating young mothers back into the education system.
The senator also advocated for stricter enforcement of existing laws that protect young girls from sexual abuse and violence. These include Republic Act No. 11596, which prohibits child marriage and cohabitation between adults and minors, and Republic Act No. 11648, which raised the age of sexual consent from 12 to 16. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
