DEPED TO REVIEW SEX EDUCATION PROGRAM; ‘VERY IMPORTANT’ AMID RISING TEEN PREGNANCY – PBBM


DepEd working with experts, communities to ensure 'culturally sensitive' of sex education program. President Marcos Jr. emphasized its importance in addressing teenage pregnancy (Photo courtesy of Philippine Star)
The Department of Education (DepEd) will review its existing program on comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), as well as its rules and guidelines to ensure that its measures respond to the needs of the students that are "culturally sensitive."
Education Secretary Sonny Angara made the statement after the National Coalition for the Family and the Constitution (NCFC) expressed concern over the possible discussion of concepts like "gender fluidity" and "sexual diversity," contraception, abortion, and non-traditional relationships under the CSE.
Angara acknowledged the concerns raised by the conservative groups and noted that they are reviewing the existing CSE program and current department guidelines and rules to ensure they are indeed age-appropriate and compliant with existing laws.
The Education secretary also proposed holding consultative dialogues with stakeholders such as health service providers and community organizations.
''We are actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including health service providers and community organizations, to ensure that our programs are effective and culturally sensitive. Our efforts include exploring models from our communities and other countries,'' Angara said.
CSE seeks to address teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and gender-based violence. It focuses on a sexual rights-based and inclusive approach to help younger people make safe and responsible choices. The bill includes a provision for confidentiality, meaning parents may not be notified of their children’s activities.
On the other hand, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself backed the bill, pointing out the importance of educating the youth about the risks, consequences and challenges brought by early pregnancy.
“The teaching of this in our schools is very, very, very important. To make young people, especially, knowledgeable about what are the options that are truly available to us, and what the consequences are - of having a child too soon, too early. Children having children is a very difficult situation for both the child and the parent,” Marcos said.
Source: ABS-CBN News
Be part of ImHenyo community!
Get featured by sharing your stories, news, and comments
Email us at [email protected]
NEWS















Comments