In recent years, family planning has become a widely discussed topic in communities across the globe. What was once considered a taboo subject in Filipino culture is now openly discussed, creating a supportive environment where everyone’s choices are respected and people feel empowered to make informed decisions.
In Barangay 106 (Sto. Niño), a remote area in Tacloban City, residents have embraced the importance of family planning. It all started with a barangay population volunteer who sparked friendly conversations about the topic, gradually transforming whispered discussions into open and welcoming dialogues within households and communities.
Based on the report from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the population of this barangay has seen a significant increase of 23% from 2015 to 2020. The census conducted in 2020 recorded a total population of 11,661 in the area.
Innovative family planning methods
According to the Department of Health (DOH), family planning refers to intentionally deciding on the number of children one desires to have and the specific timing of their births. This is achieved through the utilization of reliable and efficient contemporary methods that ensure the safety and effectiveness of the process.
In addition, the department has implemented new family planning methods to assist families, particularly those facing adolescent pregnancies, in making informed decisions, such as various modern methods of contraception available today.
There are various contraceptive methods available for both men and women. Hormonal pills are taken orally, and ligation (a surgical procedure that involves blocking the fallopian tubes) and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are some of the options for women. Hormonal injectables, implants, and male and female condoms are other methods that can be used to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Vasectomy is a permanent surgical procedure for men that involves blocking or cutting the vas deferens. Additionally, emergency contraceptives are available for use after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It’s important to note that there are now a variety of contraceptive options available to both men and women.
Community worker initiative
Melissa Rafols, a Barangay Service Point Officer in Barangay 106 (Sto. Niño), undertakes a personal crusade by going door-to-door to share crucial knowledge about family planning in her community.
Every knock on the door is an opportunity for education and empowerment. Conversations unfold in various settings as she approaches the topic with care and sensitivity.
“I shared some family planning advice with them and included my experience as an example. If I didn’t embrace the idea of family planning, I could not manage my personal life and work. This topic is essential to the community,” Melissa said.
In addition to Melissa’s efforts to promote family planning in the community, she also facilitates activities related to gender and development. These activities focus on topics such as adolescent sexual and reproductive health, as well as responsible and accountable behavior within families. Melissa plays a vital role in helping to organize these activities.
Melissa Rafol discussed responsible parenthood and family planning with her fellow Barangay Service Point Officer and some constituents in Barangay 106 (Sto. Niño). (Photo courtesy of Reyan Arinto/CPD-8)
Melissa Rafols working in action. (Photo: PIA Leyte)
Her dedication and impact on her community did not go unnoticed. In the 2023 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Awards (RMSKPA), organized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), she was recognized as the regional outstanding barangay population volunteer. Her tireless work and commitment to community welfare set her apart in the eyes of the judging panel.
But the recognition didn’t stop there. In a ceremony held at the Heritage Hotel in Manila on Nov. 23, 2023, Melissa was adjudged the 3rd place winner at the national level in the same award category. She received a plaque, a certificate, and a cash prize of P50,000 as tokens of acknowledgment for her relentless efforts.
“I wasn’t expecting to win. I trusted everything to God. With the help of my barangay and the City Population Office, we did our best. I’m thankful to God for the blessings, including the supportive barangay councils and the City Government of Tacloban,” Melissa said.
She mentioned that receiving these awards had a remarkable impact on her barangay, especially her life. Despite the challenging nature of her work, she feels that the government has acknowledged and appreciated her efforts. This recognition of her hard work and dedication holds significant value for her.
“I will use the cash prize to pay my children’s tuition fees. This amount would help finance their schooling,” Melissa added.
Melissa and other barangay healthcare workers and volunteers exemplify how community-driven initiatives can create positive changes, as they could help people make informed decisions about their reproductive health. This, in turn, improves the overall health, economic stability, and sustainability of communities. (LDL/AAC/PIA Leyte)
