DOH PLANS CONTRACEPTIVE ACCESS TO REDUCE TEEN PREGNANCY

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa proposed expanding access to modern contraceptives for teens to reduce unplanned pregnancies and associated risks. He argued that planned pregnancies improve maternal and child health, while unplanned pregnancies result in low birth weight and health issues. Advocates urge the passage of the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, noting a 35% rise in births among girls under 15 between 2021 and 2022. Herbosa emphasized the importance of providing safe sex options to teens despite societal resistance. The UN Population Fund also called for immediate action to address the rising adolescent pregnancy rates.