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Strategies Employed by the Selected Internal and External Stakeholders to Address the
Emerging Cases of Early Teenage Pregnancies in the Alabat Island Division of Quezon:
Basis for Localized Gender and Development Program
Jhohnniel P. Celeste*, Randy T. Nobleza
For affiliations and correspondence, see the last page.
Abstract
The study has made to gather data regarding on the strategies employed by the selected internal and
external stakeholders to address the emerging cases of teenage pregnancy in the Alabat Island
Division of Quezon. Thus; the study sought to answer the following, what strategies are being
employed by the internal and external stakeholders and what are the results of their strategies. The
strategic solution for untimely pregnancy of teenagers was the spotlight of the study where these
teenagers are secondary students. The internal stakeholders were composed of District GAD
coordinators, District Nurses, School GAD coordinators, Secondary Teachers, Health coordinators,
ARH coordinators and guidance counselors. In contrast, external stakeholders were the DSWD
Pantawid head, MSWDO head, Health Officer, and SK Federation President, WCPD officer, and
Secondary parents, who took significant part in the study. With the data gathered, researcher; has
come up to a recommendation of programs for the Alabat Island Division of Quezon.The study
utilized qualitative methods to come up with better outcomes, which has been done through group
interviews. Hence, the sampling design was purposeful sampling to get the most appropriate
participants of the study. The study has been conducted in the whole island; that, composed of three
municipalities, Perez, Alabat, and Quezon. With the help of thematic analysis of the data, the study
has been more organized and meaningful.The results of the strategies employed by the internal and
external stakeholders in Alabat island appeared as the comprehensive sex education, abstinence
strategy, counseling, youth social development, contraceptive counseling, awareness on rights and
protection of the youth, no cellphone policy inside the classroom, parenthood development program
and case management. As conclusion, the internal and external stakeholders focus on spreading
awareness about topics relating to sex education, such as understanding changes that happened in
puberty, proper use of contraceptives, and giving knowledge about HIV and STDs. However, despite
the continuous implementation of these strategies, it appears that the emerging cases of teenage
pregnancy in Alabat Island continue to increase. As recommendation, since the teenage pregnancy
increase in general, the Internal and external stakeholders may continue to initiate multifaceted long-
term programs educating the local public on the severe social and public health consequences of
unwanted pregnancy. In addition, since the most encountered problems of the stakeholders were the
parents’ participation, beliefs and guidance, stakeholders may also consider further programs
focusing on proper parenthood and family support to help parents or guardians establish a positive
relationship with their children.
Keywords: gender and development, internal and external stakeholders, teenage pregnancy,
and strategies
implications of delivering a child to young girls are
Introduction
major factors in death. They are usually experiencing
UNESCO identified sustainable development goals in violence which eventually leads to dropping out of
2015, and five of these are (1) For families to able to school.
provide foods on their table regularly, (2) To have no According to a 2016 UNFPA-commissioned study,
gnawing of the stomach, (3) To have physical wellness adolescents in the Philippines who started childbirth
and good welfare, (4) To attain equal opportunity and before 18 are much less likely to graduate from
continuing education for all and (5) To achieve secondary school than adolescents who did not start
equality among all genders and for empowered women childbearing. Adolescent pregnancy is a significant
by 2030, United Nations (2015).Teenage pregnancy is issue in many of our communities. Numerous
one of the most pressing matters confronting today's adolescents choose to engage in sexual activity before
Filipino youth. World Health Organization (2018) they are capable of committing to loving relationships
claimed that, pregnancy among teenagers is a global (UNFPA, 2016). Briones (2019) claimed that one of
youth development issue and early pregnancy and the the root causes of the high dropout rate of girls is
marriage and family matters, which also can be treated EDUCATION,” aims to achieve a common
as teenage pregnancy. In relation, Duterte (2021) has understanding of the CSE's key concepts and
inscribed that teenage pregnancy is a national priority messages, as well as to ensure precise protocol
as stated to in presidential order number 141 (E. O. implementation in the CSE.In connection,
141). Hence, all government agencies and Memorandum No. 150, s 2020 Division of Quezon,
instrumentalities shall identify and implement as far as titled Div isio n Po licy Gu id elin es on the
practicable interventions related to the prevention of implementating of Gender and Development (GAD)
Adolescent pregnancies.For the year 2020, POPCOM programs, projects and activities, as compliance to
and DepEd, together with Adolescent Pregnancy Republic Act 9710 or Magna Carta for Women
Technical Working Group (APTWG) make a (MCW) and DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017 or Gender-
rigorouseffort to reach more adolescents by providing Responsive Basic Education Policy, stated that the
age- appropriate information and services and division of Quezon is dedicated to ensuring that all
eventually decline the incidence of teenage pregnancy gender issues are adequately addressed where no
in the region (Obcena, 2020). employee and learners sre left behind in the
organization. Ensuring capacity for advancement and
In addition, as mandated by the 2021 General procedure that are collaborative, developmental,
Appropriations Act, the Department of Social Welfare provides equality, strategic, no violence, exercise
and Development (DSWD) and the Commission on human rights, asserting confidence, and develop the
Popu lation and Develop men t (POPCOM) wholistic individual. Division of Quezon also
implemented the Social Protection Program for committed that learning resource GAD focal persons
Teenage Mothers and their Children (SPPTMC). This are well-trained on gender responsiveness, sexuality,
collaboration has strengthened by a Memorandum of reproductive health education, human rights, and peace
Agreement (MOA) which aiming to establish a social education.(Mohr, 2019) Study titled, The Influence of
safety net program specifically for minor teenage Educational Attainment on Teenage Pregnancy in
mothers and their children. As initially intended in the Low-Income Countries: A Systematic Literature
Philippine Development Plan and the 2030 Agenda for Review, claimed that, teenagers who have higher
Sustainable Development, SPPTMC seeks to prevent education or remained in school longer generally
teenage pregnancies and to establish adequate and delayed being pregnant at an early age than other
available measures to protect the well-being of teenage females who had little or no education at all. Hence,
mothers and their children. The DSWD and POPCOM the study recommended that a well-established country
both recognize the importance of preventing teen should come to an understanding what factors affect
pregnancy because of the long-term consequences on teenagers’ becoming dropouts, which could be a
the health of young people in a population group that reasonable basis for the interventions in combating the
is critical to national development (Fawcett et al. issue.Therefore, the stakeholders must unfailingly and
2017). Furthermore, several DepEd Memorandum untiringly instill the moral values. The classroom may
Orders have also provided programs and guidelines as be the best place to discuss the negative impact of
a way in battling the same issue. The D. M. No. 101, s. early pregnancy but it can also be taught via online
2019 entitled “KAPIT-KAMAY: EMPOWERING platforms and to the community. The educators and
THE YOUTH TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES,” school collaborators must reiterate to students about
aims to convene a summit to discuss the educational, the significance of finishing their studies. (Manila
health, and developmental dimensions of early Times 2020) stated that, if there are programs tackling
pregnancy issues. The Division Memorandum No. about the teenage pregnancy in a more responsible
196, s. 2021 of Region IV-A Schools Division of way, this would be the basic step to reduce ballooning
Quezon Province entitled “ONLINE ADOLESCENT cases of the unintended pregnancy of teenagers.
HEA LTH AND D E V EL O P M E N T (AHD)
PROGRAM IN DEPED - QUEZON (PILOT Research Questions
ACTIVITY)” aims to raise awareness among This study aimed to seek the Strategies Employed by
adolescent learners about appropriate information the Selected Internal and External Stakeholders to
about adolescent sexuality and other reproductive Address the Emerging Cases of Teenage Pregnancies
health concerns and issues through the Teenage in the Alabat Island Division of Quezon as a basis for
Pregnancy Symposium as well as the AHD Film the Localized Gender and Development Program.
Distribution. Specifically, it sought to answer the following
questions:
Moreover, the DO No. 031, s. 2018 entitled “POLICY
GUIDELINES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 1. What are the strategies employed by the internal and
THE COMPREHENSIVE S E X U A L I T Y external stakeholders to address the emerging cases of
strategies that the internal and external stakeholders address the emerging cases of teenage pregnancy in
were employing, as well as the results and these Alabat Island, the researcher employed thematic
underlying questions, as to address the emerging analysis to analyze the information gathered from the
cases of teenage pregnancies in Alabat Island. These interview. After the participants of this study answered
guide questions conducted face-to-face group the guide questions during the interview, the
interviews that took place according to the convenient researcher reviewed the video and used a speaker to
time of theparticipants. hear the responses. The information gathered from here
was transcribed bare hand (written) and typed to transfer
For validation purposes of the instrument, the in soft copy. These were printed, and the valuable
researcher presented the draft of the interview part to statements were coded manually through a highlighter
the research adviser for initial comments and marker. After coding, axial coding was done to draw
suggestions. Also, it was validated by at least five connections between the codes. The last one was
experts in the field, one Doctor graduate, two masters selective coding to select one central category to
graduate, one District GAD Coordinator and one connect all the codes from the analysis and come up
Municipal Health Officer, who also have experiences with the essence of the research. (Babbie 388-391,
and concerns in the Gender and Development program 2016). Therefore, the process was done deductively,
implementation. from general to specific, and this data analysis method
was applied to all the variables in the problem
Data Gathering Procedure statement.
education plays a crucial role in the lives of high relationship dynamics, communication skills, and
school learners, offering them essential knowledge and assertiveness. Teenagers can learn how to set
skills that are integral to their overall well-being and boundaries, negotiate consent, and make choices
development. Firstly, comprehensive sex education aligned with their values and goals. Additionally,
provides accurate and reliable information about counseling can provide information and access to
sexual health, reproduction, and relationships. It contraception methods, ensuring that teenagers are
equips students with a comprehensive understanding aware of and have the resources to protect themselves
of their bodies, sexual and reproductive processes, and against unintended pregnancies. By empowering
the importance of practicing safe and consensual teenagers with the necessary knowledge and skills,
behavior. By providing scientifically accurate counseling helps them build resilience, make informed
information, comprehensive sex education empowers decisions, and develop healthy behaviors, all of which
high school learners to make informed decisions about contribute to reducing the incidence of teenage
their sexual health and relationships, reducing the pregnancy.
likelihood of unplanned pregnancies, sexually
transmitted infections (STIs), and other potential risks. In summary, comprehensive sex education is of
paramount importance for high school learners. It
Secondly, comprehensive sex education goes beyond provides accurate information, equips them with
the biological aspects and also addresses important essential skills, and promotes healthy attitudes and
social and emotional dimensions of sexuality. It behaviors. By offering a holistic approach to sexuality
promotes healthy attitudes, values, and communication education, comprehensive sex education empowers
skills related to relationships, consent, and respect. By young individuals to make responsible choices,
fostering open and non-judgmental discussions about promotes their sexual health and well-being, and
topics such as consent, boundaries, gender roles, and contributes to the reduction of teenage pregnancies,
sexual diversity, comprehensive sex education helps to STIs, and other potential risks. Thus, counseling plays
create a safe and inclusive environment for high school a vital role in reducing cases of teenage pregnancy by
learners. It also enables them to develop crucial life addressing the emotional, psychological, and social
skills, such as effective communication, decision- factors that contribute to risky sexual behaviors. It
making, and critical thinking, which are essential for provides a supportive environment for teenagers to
maintaining healthy relationships throughout their explore their thoughts and feelings, equips them with
lives (Xavier, etal., 2018). essential skills and knowledge, and helps them develop
healthy relationships and decision-making abilities
On the other hand, Epstein and colleagues (2018) said (Vaughan et al., 2018). By addressing the underlying
that counseling also plays a crucial role in reducing issues and promoting responsible behavior, counseling
cases of teenage pregnancy by addressing the serves as a valuable tool in preventing teenage
emotional, psychological, and social factors that pregnancies and supporting the overall well-being of
contribute to risky sexual behaviors. Firstly, adolescents.
counseling provides a safe and confidential space for
teenagers to express their thoughts, concerns, and fears Table 1.2. Strategies Employed in Terms of Means or
related to relationships, sexuality, and pregnancy. It Ways of Implementation
allows them to explore their feelings and beliefs,
helping them develop a better understanding of
themselves and their motivations. Through counseling,
adolescents can gain insight into the underlying issues
that may be influencing their choices, such as low self-
esteem, peer pressure, or a lack of knowledge about
contraception. By addressing these emotional and
psychological factors, counseling helps teenagers
make more informed and responsible decisions
regarding their sexual behavior, reducing the
likelihood of unplanned pregnancies.
being. They can also identify any underlying issues the crucial role of educational institutions in
that may contribute to the risk of teenage pregnancy, addressing this issue and equipping students with
such as low self-esteem, peer pressure, or a lack of essential knowledge and skills.
access to healthcare and contraception (Carter et al.,
2017). By addressing these factors and connecting Furthermore, a subset of internal and external
students with appropriate resources and services, stakeholders implemented programs on a quarterly
professionals can effectively support students in basis. This flexible approach allows for regular check-
making responsible choices and reducing the incidence ins, assessments, and adjustments to strategies based
of teenage pregnancy. on the evolving needs and challenges related to
teenage pregnancy. Quarterly programs provide
Table 1.3. Strategies Employed in terms of Frequency opportunities for stakeholders to evaluate the
of Implementation effectiveness of their interventions and make necessary
adaptations to ensure their relevance and impact.
Moreover, the study's identification of a higher The given research provides information about the
number of stakeholders and responses in Alabat, number of teenage pregnancies in three different
Quezon compared to Perez, Quezon, and Quezon, municipalities in Alabat Island, specifically Alabat,
Quezon may indicate varying levels of awareness and Perez, and Quezon. It highlights the contrasting trends
engagement across different regions. This finding in the occurrence of teenage pregnancies despite the
aligns with previous studies that have shown regional implementation of various interventions aimed at
disparities in teenage pregnancy rates and awareness addressing the issue.
programs. It underscores the importance of tailoring
interventions and initiatives to specific local contexts In Alabat, Quezon, the research reveals that there were
(Finley et al., 2017). three cases of teenage pregnancies in the year 2021.
However, the number increased to 12 in the following
Additionally, the involvement of external stakeholders year, resulting in a total of 15 cases over the span of
in all three locations suggests the recognition of the two consecutive years. Despite the presence of
need for a multi-sectoral approach to address teenage comprehensive sex education in schools, counseling
pregnancy. Previous studies have emphasized the services, youth social development programs,
significance of collaborations between local awareness campaigns on rights and protection, and
communities, healthcare providers, educational community intervention through case management, the
institutions, and other organizations to create a rise in teenage pregnancies indicates that these
comprehensive support system for young people measures have not been successful in effectively
(Gcelu, 2019). mitigating the issue in Alabat.
On the other hand, in Perez, Quezon, the research healthcare, cultural norms, and societal attitudes
reports three cases of teenage pregnancies in 2021. towards sexuality. Holistic solutions should be
The number of cases increased to six in 2022, resulting developed that take these factors into account to
in a total of nine cases over the two-year period. The address the root causes of the issue.
study suggests that the interventions in Perez, such as
comprehensive sex education, counseling, youth social Lastly, the research underscores the significance of
development initiatives, and awareness campaigns, collaboration and coordination among stakeholders
coupled with a no cellphone policy in schools and involved in addressing teenage pregnancies. Schools,
communities, have also not proven to be entirely healthcare providers, community organizations,
effective in reducing teenage pregnancies. parents, and policymakers need to work together,
sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices to
In the case of Quezon, Quezon, the research indicates develop comprehensive and effective strategies.
that the key respondents did not provide their Evidence-based approaches should be prioritized,
responses concerning teenage pregnancies in their ensuring that decision-making and intervention
municipality. Therefore, it is not possible to draw any planning are guided by sound research and data
conclusions about the effectiveness or ineffectiveness analysis. Additionally, further research is needed to
of interventions in mitigating teenage pregnancies in gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and
that specific area. factors specific to each area, enabling the development
of targeted interventions and the identification of
Overall, the research highlights the persistent emerging trends.
challenge of teenage pregnancies in these
municipalities despite the implementation of various The previous discussion on the importance of
measures. It suggests that additional efforts or implementing comprehensive sex education in schools
alternative strategies may be necessary to address the and communities directly relates to the issue of
underlying factors contributing to the issue. Further teenage pregnancies. Teenage pregnancies often occur
analysis and investigation are required to understand due to a lack of information, inadequate access to
the specific reasons behind the ineffectiveness of the contraception, limited understanding of reproductive
health, and societal norms that may perpetuate risky
implemented interventions and to develop more
sexual behaviors. Comprehensive sex education
targeted and impactful approaches in reducing teenage
addresses these factors and aims to prevent teenage
pregnancies in these areas.
pregnancies through various means (Halonen, 2017).
The results of the research on teenage pregnancies in
According to Phuhongsai (2018), by providing
the municipalities of Alabat, Perez, and Quezon in
accurate and evidence-based information about sexual
Quezon Province have significant implications. Firstly,
health, comprehensive sex education equips young
it suggests that the current interventions, including
individuals with the knowledge they need to
comprehensive sex education, counseling services,
understand the potential consequences of engaging in
youth social development programs, and awareness
sexual activities. It educates them about the
campaigns, have not been successful in effectively
importance of contraception, STI prevention, and
reducing the number of teenage pregnancies. This calls
responsible sexual behavior, helping to reduce the risk
for a critical evaluation of these interventions to
of unintended pregnancies.
identify gaps and areas for improvement. Tailored
approaches that consider the unique socio-cultural, Empowering informed decision-making is another
economic, and educational contexts of each critical aspect of comprehensive sex education. By
community should be developed to address the issue teaching young people about consent, healthy
more effectively. relationships, and communication skills,
comprehensive sex education encourages them to
Secondly, the findings highlight the importance of make choices based on their own desires and
regularly evaluating the outcomes of implemented boundaries. This can help prevent situations where
interventions. Monitoring and assessing the teenage pregnancies may arise from coercive or non-
effectiveness of programs and strategies can help consensual sexual encounters (Gavin et al., 2016).
identify what works and what does not, allowing for
timely adjustments and improvements. Furthermore, it Harold (2018) said that promoting healthy
emphasizes the need to address underlying factors that relationships through comprehensive sex education is
contribute to teenage pregnancies, such as socio- also vital in addressing teenage pregnancies. By
economic disparities, limited access to reproductive emphasizing mutual respect, communication, and
Involving parents and communities in comprehensive In addition to the lack of parental support, the
sex education is crucial in providing a supportive irresponsible use of technology and social media by
environment for young individuals (Omeje, 2019). By teenagers also emerges as a prominent factor affecting
engaging parents, comprehensive sex education the implementation of strategies. The data reveals that
promotes open communication and shared 2 cases in Alabat, Quezon, 6 cases in Perez, Quezon,
responsibility in educating young people about sexual and 1 case in Quezon, Quezon were attributed to this
health. It helps parents understand the importance of issue. The improper and reckless use of technology
providing accurate information, supporting their and social media platforms can expose teenagers to
children's decision-making, and creating a safe space explicit content, encourage risky behaviors, and
for discussing sensitive topics. This involvement can facilitate the development of inappropriate
contribute to a reduction in teenage pregnancies by relationships. These factors can contribute to early and
fostering an atmosphere of understanding, guidance, unintended pregnancies among teenagers, emphasizing
and support. the need for comprehensive education and awareness
programs to address this concern.
Table 2.2. Results of Strategies Employed in Terms of
Problems encountered in the Implementation Furthermore, the lack of parents' participation and
support for the program is highlighted as another
significant problem encountered in the failure of
intervention programs aimed at decreasing teenage
pregnancy rates. The input from 8 respondents across
different municipalities of Alabat Island underscores
the importance of engaging parents in initiatives that
address teenage pregnancies. Parental involvement
plays a crucial role in reinforcing the messages and
lessons learned through intervention programs, as
parents can provide guidance, support, and a nurturing
environment that complements the efforts made within
educational institutions and the broader community.
technology use, providing guidance on internet safety, communication, parents can equip their children with
and fostering digital literacy among teenagers can help accurate information and promote healthy attitudes
mitigate the negative impact of technology and social towards sexuality. By engaging in ongoing
media on teenage pregnancy rates.
conversations about sexual health, relationships, and
The implications of the results presented in Table 2.2 responsible behavior, parents can empower their
regarding teenage pregnancies are significant and children to make informed choices and understand the
provide valuable insights for addressing this issue potential consequences of early sexual activities. Open
effectively. Firstly, the finding that the lack of parental dialogue allows parents to dispel myths and
guidance and support is a major problem encountered misconceptions, ensuring that their children have a
affecting the implementation of strategies highlights
solid foundation of knowledge to make informed
the crucial role parents play in preventing teenage
decisions.
pregnancies. It underscores the need for targeted
interventions that engage parents and provide them
with the necessary knowledge, skills, and support to Secondly, UNESCO (2018) reiterated that setting clear
actively participate in addressing this issue. By boundaries and expectations is crucial in preventing
involving parents, educators, and community early pregnancies. When parents communicate their
stakeholders in comprehensive sex education programs values, expectations, and guidelines to their children,
and promoting open communication, strategies can be they provide them with a framework for responsible
developed to bridge the gap and ensure consistent behavior. By establishing boundaries around
guidance and support for teenagers, thus reducing the
relationships and sexual activities, parents can help
risk of early pregnancies.
their children develop a strong sense of self-worth and
Secondly, the impact of the irresponsible use of self-respect. This, in turn, can prevent teenagers from
technology and social media on teenage pregnancies engaging in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex
calls for a multi-faceted approach. It is crucial to or entering into unhealthy relationships, that may lead
educate teenagers about responsible technology use, to early pregnancies. Parental involvement in setting
digital citizenship, and online safety. Implementing
boundaries provides teenagers with guidance and
awareness campaigns, workshops, and school
support, helping them navigate peer pressure and make
programs that address the risks and consequences of
inappropriate online behavior can empower teenagers responsible decisions.
to make informed choices and navigate the digital
world responsibly. Additionally, involving parents in Lastly, Stanger-Hall & Hall (2017) noted that parental
these initiatives can reinforce positive online behaviors support plays a significant role in fostering emotional
and promote a safer online environment for young well-being and positive role modeling. By creating a
individuals. nurturing and supportive environment, parents provide
teenagers with the emotional support they need to
Furthermore, the lack of parents' participation in
intervention programs indicates the importance of navigate the challenges of adolescence. When
engaging and involving parents from the early stages teenagers feel supported and valued by their parents,
of program development. Creating awareness among they are more likely to seek guidance and support from
parents about the significance of their participation and them when facing relationship or sexual health issues.
encouraging their active involvement can enhance the Additionally, positive parental role modeling, such as
effectiveness of strategies aimed at preventing teenage displaying healthy relationships, mutual respect, and
pregnancies. Schools, community organizations, and
responsible behavior, can have a profound impact on
healthcare providers can collaborate to offer parenting
workshops, support groups, and resources that equip
teenagers' choices. When parents model healthy
parents with the knowledge and skills to address issues behaviors, they provide their children with examples to
related to adolescent sexual health, fostering a follow and guide them toward making responsible
supportive and informed environment. decisions regarding their sexual health.
Table 2.4. Results of Strategies Employed in Terms of resources to teenagers, the programs aim to enable
Effects of Teenage Pregnancy Programs them to continue their education and pursue a brighter
future.
of teenage pregnancy. It offers support systems such as 4. Mentorship and Peer Support: Establish mentorship
counseling, peer education, and mentorship programs and peer support programs that connect teenagers with
to help teenagers navigate the challenges they may positive role models and peers who can provide
face. By providing emotional support, guidance, and guidance and support. These programs can involve
positive role models, the program helps teenagers trained mentors who offer one-on-one guidance, group
build resilience, self-esteem, and the skills necessary activities that promote positive social interactions, and
to make healthy life choices. This holistic approach platforms for open discussions on topics related to
acknowledges the complex factors that contribute to sexuality, relationships, and life skills. Peer educators
early teenage pregnancy and aims to address them can also be trained to disseminate accurate information
comprehensively, creating a supportive environment and act as resources for their peers.
that encourages teenagers to delay parenthood and
5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement a robust
focus on their personal growth and development
monitoring and evaluation system to continuously
On the Localized Gender and Development (GAD) assess the effectiveness of the program. This can
include tracking the rates of teenage pregnancies,
Intervention Program Derived from the Study
dropout rates, and the utilization of reproductive health
services. Regular evaluations should be conducted to
Based on the results of the study, a localized Gender
identify any gaps or areas for improvement, allowing
and Development (GAD) program could be developed
for adjustments and modifications to enhance the
to address the factors influencing teenage pregnancies
program's impact.
in the specific context of the study area. The program
could focus on the following key components: By developing a localized GAD program based on the
study's findings, the specific needs and challenges
1. Comprehensive Sexuality Education: Implement a related to teenage pregnancies in the area can be
targeted and age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality addressed effectively. This program should be
education curriculum in schools and community contextually tailored, involving active community
settings. This curriculum should provide accurate participation and collaboration with stakeholders to
information on sexual and reproductive health, healthy ensure its success and sustainability.
relationships, gender equality, and consent. It should
also address the specific challenges and cultural
factors related to teenage pregnancies in the local Conclusion
context.
Based on the findings of the study, the following
2. Community Engagement and Stakeholder
conclusions were obtained:
Collaboration: Establish partnerships with local
1. The study conducted in Alabat, Perez, and Quezon,
communities, parents, educators, healthcare providers,
Quezon, provides important insights into the
and other relevant stakeholders. Engage them in the
perceptions of stakeholders regarding interventions
development and implementation of the program to
aimed at addressing teenage pregnancies. The findings
ensure its relevance and effectiveness. This reveal that comprehensive sex education and one-on-
collaboration can include organizing community one counseling were viewed as ineffective, while other
forums, workshops, and awareness campaigns to raise interventions such as awareness programs and youth
awareness about teenage pregnancy prevention and development initiatives received low responses. These
promote community support. results emphasize the need for alternative approaches
and further research to develop more impactful
3. Accessible Reproductive Health Services: Improve strategies in these regions. The study also highlights
access to youth-friendly reproductive health services the significance of parental guidance, responsible
by working closely with local healthcare providers. technology use, home visitations, and the positive
This can involve setting up dedicated adolescent- impact of implemented programs in reducing teenage
friendly clinics, ensuring the availability of pregnancies and promoting overall well-being and
contraceptives, promoting regular check-ups, and education.
providing counseling services. It is essential to address 2. The research findings underscore the ineffectiveness
any barriers that may prevent teenagers from seeking of current interventions, such as comprehensive sex
and utilizing reproductive health services, such as education and counseling, in mitigating the rising rates
stigma, confidentiality concerns, or financial of teenage pregnancies in Alabat and Perez, Quezon.
constraints. The lack of parental guidance and support,
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