In 2017, former President Rodrigo Duterte ordered government agencies to offer free contraceptives for 6 million women in the Philippines. The increase in unwanted pregnancies among young women in the Philippines or so-called teenage pregnancies led to this project by the government.
In 2012, the Reproductive Health Law was passed after long years of battle against the people who are against it. It's called Republic Act No.10354 or the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012. This law aims to provide universal and free access to contraceptive methods like birth control pills, condoms, IUDs, and implants. In addition, the directive of this law gives reproductive health education in government schools and acknowledges's women rights to postabortion care in the country.
However, even though the law was passed in 2012 the implementation of this law was delayed, and in 2017 as we said earlier, former President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the government agencies to give free contraception and free reproductive health education.
What is contraception?
A contraception is a simple act of preventing unwanted pregnancy among women or couples who are not ready to have kids yet. Contraception can be a medication, device, procedure, or behavior. It allows women to have authority over their reproductive health.
Importance of contraception in the society
Without a doubt, one of the importance of contraception in society, especially for families is to have a choice in terms of when they want to start a family. In addition, the main goal of the reproductive health law in the Philippines is to give free access to young women's contraceptive options. The number of unwanted pregnancies among young women increased in the past year, and predominantly, teenagers who come from poor families were affected.
Preventing unplanned pregnancies might also help families avoid the economic burden of having a child, especially if the couples are not ready financially to have a child. Additionally, having family planning enables them to plan ahead for the future of their children by giving them a good education, and having a healthy life.
Here's a list of some of the importance of contraception:
- Family Planning: Allows strategic pregnancy timing.
- Women's Empowerment: Empowers women by providing greater control over reproductive choices, and facilitating the pursuit of education, careers, and personal goals.
- Health and Well-being: Facilitates preparation for parenthood.
- Maternal and Infant Health: Reduces risks through planned pregnancies.
- Economic Benefits: Enables resource management and investment in children.
- Preventing Unintended Pregnancies: Mitigates social, economic, and psychological impacts.
- Sexual Health and Freedom: Prevents infections and supports consensual relationships.
- Population Control: Manages growth for sustainable development.
- Education and Awareness: Promotes informed decision-making.
- Gender Equality: Empowers both genders in family planning decisions.
Where can you get free contraceptives in the Philippines?
You can access free contraceptives in the Philippines from the following:
1. Government Health Centers:
Firstly, barangay health centers and government-run health facilities often provide free contraceptives as part of the government's reproductive health programs.
2. Public Hospitals and Clinics:
Secondly, public hospitals and clinics offer family planning services, including the provision of free contraceptives to individuals seeking reproductive health support.
3. Local Government Units (LGUs):
Additionally, local government units are actively involved in implementing reproductive health programs. Moreover, contacting your local LGU can provide information on where to access free contraceptives in your area.
4. Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and Other Tertiary Hospitals:
Tertiary hospitals, such as PGH in Manila, often have reproductive health services that include the distribution of free contraceptives.
5. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):
NGOs dedicated to reproductive health, such as Likhaan and the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), may provide free contraceptives and counseling services.
6. Women's Health Centers:
Women's health centers, both public and private, may offer free contraceptives and reproductive health consultations.
7. Community Health Programs:
Community-based health programs often include reproductive health services, and they may distribute free contraceptives during outreach activities.
In summary
Free access to contraceptives and reproductive health education in the Philippines is available. Allowing women and families to have choices when to have kids when they are ready and financially, socially, mentally, and emotionally ready.
Lastly, learn more about the different types of contraception here!