RH BILL

There are presently 2 Reproductive Health Bills with the same goals, namely, House Bill No. 4244 or An Act providing for a Comprehensive Policy on Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health, and Population Development, and For Other Purposes introduced by Representative Edcel Lagman and Senate Bill No. 2378 or An Act Providing for a National Policy on Reproductive Health and Development introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. The Philippines is considered the 12th most populous nation in the world today and that the Filipino womens fertility rate is at the upper bracket of 206 countries. Under the regime of Pres. Marcos, the declaration on population was signed together with 12 other countries wherein the population problem was considered the principal element for long-term economic development thus, the Population Commission (Popcom) was created. The population Commission aims to push for a lower family size norm and provide information and services to lower fertility rates. Different presidents had different points of emphasis. President Aquino stated that he gives full support to a firm population policy, educating parents to be responsible, providing contraceptives to those who ask for them, but he refuses to promote contraceptive use. President Aquinos position is more aptly called responsible parenthood rather than reproductive health. Proponent such as E. Ansioco of Democratic Socialist Women of the Philippines argued that, the WHO includes contraceptives in its Model Lists of Essential Drugs and thus are safe medicines. Medical and scientific evidence says the main proponent shows that all the possible medical risks connected with contraceptives are infinitely lower than the risks of an actual pregnancy and everyday activities. The RH Bill provides for mandatory reproductive health education and that it be taught in an appropriate manner by adequately trained teachers starting from Grade 5 up to fourth Year High School. In September 2010, President Aquino reiterated his stand during his visit to the United States that he is in favour for responsible parenthood and respects the decision of each couple as to the number of children they want, and if they need the government support for contraception, then the government will provide it. The statement of the President has created to furor as Catholic church leaders say that Aquino has sold out the Filipino soul in exchange some measly aid from the United States. According to the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference, said that there are possibly be an excommunication of the President if he continues on with his stand. President Aquinos spokesperson Edwin Lacierda explained that the President has not changed his stand and is reaching out to the prelates and said that the President himself has not made any decision in support of Reproductive Health Bill as he is still studying the document. Lacierda also stated that the Executive Branch is not involved in the passage of the RH Bill, saying the measures fate rests solely on the legislative branch. The Imam Council of the Philippines declared that they are

against contraceptives since using them underestimates God and makes one lose morality in the process. Iglesia ni Cristo has expressed support for RH Bill.