Family planning
DESPITE the paralyzing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which continues to terrorize the world, millions of Filipinos still embraced modern methods of family planning in 2020.
Actually, a total of 8,085,000 Filipinos across the country used modern methods of family planning, reflecting a six percent increase from the 2019 figure, according to official records.
During the period, however, there were dropouts due to the difficulties in accessing family planning services as a result of government-imposed COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns.
Note that every year, Filipinos mark “National Family Planning Month” in August, with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom) leading the celebration.
In a statement, Health Secretary Dr. Francisco Duque said the pandemic “has put the world to a standstill, but the Philippines still managed to make progress in family planning.”
Dr. Duque commended the country’s service providers for their unwavering dedication and efforts in making sure that family planning services are available and accessible.
Popcom Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III said protecting ourselves from COVID-19 is as equally important as shielding our families from the burden of unintended pregnancies.
These unintended pregnancies hinder the country’s efforts in achieving secure and comfortable lives we aspire for every Filipino family, according to Director Perez.
The two agencies called on stakeholders, particularly local government units (LGUs), to continue the provision of family planning as one of the vital and essential health services.
Theme of this year’s celebration is “Usap Tayo sa Family Planning atbp.” DOH and Popcom regional offices will conduct online press conferences, webinars and social media campaigns.
These are all aimed at generating widespread attention on the importance and benefits of family planning in promoting the overall health and wellness of the Filipino people.
