Teen pregnancies in the Philippines have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 150,000 cases in 2022 compared to 130,000 in 2021, according to the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom).
Mylin Mirasol Quiray, from Popcom, highlighted that despite expectations of a decrease during the pandemic due to limited mobility, the numbers have risen.
The Philippines currently grapples with one of the highest rates of teen pregnancies globally.
In response, a proposed measure seeks to establish an Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Inter-Agency Council (APPIAC) to develop and execute a national strategy for preventing teenage pregnancies.
The bill has gained approval in the House of Representatives and awaits consideration in the Senate. Quiray emphasized the urgency of prioritizing this issue as cases are increasing among both 10 to 14-year-olds and 15 to 19-year-olds, according to Civil Registry and Vital Statistics data.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 14, 2024
