TACLOBAN CITY- The controversial reproductive health (RH) law is seen to be fully enforced under the current administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Thus said the regional director of the Commission on Population (Popcom) Elnora Pulma who said that there are still sectors that continue to refuse to implement the law approved in 2013.
Pres. Duterte had earlier said that he is committed in implementing Republic Act 10354, otherwise known as the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.
He made this commitment when he delivered his first State of the Nation Address (Sona) last July 25.
“Since its approval on January 17, 2013 and the signing of the internal rules and regulations on March 15, 2013, the road to the implementation of the law was not easy,” Pulma said.
The Catholic Church mainly opposes the passage of the law describing it as promoting abortion and even encouraging premarital sex.
Pulma said that the law, contrary to the perception and position of those who opposes it, will help the right of individuals like the right to health and right to sustainable development, among others.
The Popcom regional chief urged the media to help them to inform the public, particularly those who are against it, on its benefits.
“We need the media (and) the local government units as the primary implementer of the law,” Pulma said.
Pulma lamented that they have received reports that even those in the health sectors are also adamant in implementing RA 10354 on ground of their personal or religious convictions.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)