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As an organization that values human rights and believes in the inherent link between peace and development, we lament the disruption of the lives of civilians who are caught in the middle during the latest hostilities in Marawi. Armed conflicts always lead to the displacement and endangerment of the lives of the innocent, especially women and children.
Moreover, they perpetuate a cycle of violence that jeopardizes the ongoing peace and transition process in the Bangsamoro region. We call on stakeholders to participate in this simultaneous Taraweeh and continue to push for effective means of conflict resolution in the region. With the commitment to help contribute to resilience and mitigate risks in their respective communities, 71 participants from Liliw and Luisiana, Laguna conducted a writeshop to institutionalize, through an ordinance, community disaster volunteers and emergency response teams.
The writeshop was held on May 30, at Siesta Casa Dhesenza, Liliw, Laguna. In the opening message of Liliw Vice Mayor Pablo Orioste, he underscored the importance of disaster preparedness and prevention and reminded the participants to take these matters seriously as most of their barangays are prone to landslide and flashfloods.
Topics covered in the morning session included the policy environment, legal mandates, and other instruments as legal bases in the development of local policy measures such as a municipal ordinance. In the afternoon session, Liliw Mayor Ericsson Sulibit gave a message. He mentioned that disaster risk reduction and management must be part of governance of the municipality.
The participants then discussed the draft municipal ordinance, particularly concerns important provisions such as funding, roles and function of community disaster volunteers and emergency response teams. By the end of the session, an enhanced draft municipal ordinance was presented in plenary by two workshop groups with action plans to transmit the copies to their respective sanggunians. The SC also added that the TRO is deemed lifted once the FDA follows its ruling and provides an opportunity for opportunity for the oppositors to comment on the registration of Implanon and Implanon NXT.
The Supreme Court maintained that the FDA must develop procedures for the screening, evaluation, and approval of contraceptive drugs and devices and modified its August resolution by stating that FDA decisions may be appeals to the Office of the President. The Purple Ribbon for Reproductive Health views this recent modification as a means to a better end—a continued progress in the implementation of sexual and reproductive health and rights SRHR policies from the national government to the local government units.
We urge the FDA to comply with the Supreme Court resolution to immediately resolve the contraceptive use of said implants. The Purple Ribbon for Reproductive Health urges stakeholders to strongly advocate for the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health RPRH Law.
The RPRH Law is a landmark legislation that not only covers access to family planning, but also institutionalizes programs for maternal healthcare, age-appropriate sexuality and reproductive health education, as well as funding to support these programs. The Purple Ribbon for Reproductive Health remains committed and vigilant in pushing for the implementation of the RPRH Law and urges all Filipinos to assert their sexual and reproductive health and rights and to do their part in seeing this advocacy through.
Indeed, this is a fervent reminder of the need for a more aggressive assertion of the SRHR of women, especially those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. In recent years, landmark achievements in reproductive health have been made: However, the extended TRO placed by the Supreme Court on the distribution of hormonal implants and the registration and recertification of reproductive health products and supplies has prevented the RPRH Law from coming to fruition.
The Philippine Statistics Authority revealed that the maternal mortality ratio increased from in to inwhile the National Health and Demographic Survey presented an alarmingly increasing rate of teenage pregnancies. The factors leading to this include a less than desirable contraceptive prevalence rate, an actual fertility rate that is higher than wanted, and a lack of access to skilled attendants at birth.
Moreover, the Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study reported that Filipino youth are engaging in risky sexual behavior: Just this March, the Department of Health revealed a record-breaking number of new HIV cases,the highest in a month since These are due to drawbacks in pursuing a national policy and program on RH.
From a decade-long struggle in Congress, all three branches of the government—challenges in implementation and inadequate funding in the executive branch, retrogressive bills in the legislature, legal battle in the Supreme Court—and all levels of governance from national to local have now become the battleground for RH.
Despite these challenges, PLCPD looks to the future with renewed strength, continuing the fight for SRHR and condemning actions that impinge on the right of women to reliable and safe family planning. We urge the government to faithfully implement the provisions of the RPRH Law, including the age-appropriate sexuality and reproductive health education for young people.
Stakeholders are also implored to remain vigilant towards any delay and take part in seeing its full implementation through.
The next legs of the Bata sa Puso ng Batas Discussion Series, headed by the Child Rights Network, were held in the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Philippines respectively as civil society organizations, government agencies, legislators and the representatives of the legislators convened in back to back policy forums on the nutrition budgets for Emmi De Jesus, representative of Gabriela Party list opened the activity in the HOR by discussing the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition which aims to focus nutrition interventions in the context of the First Days.
She emphasized the role of legislators in the promotion of nutrition such as the development of laws, conduct of oversight and ensuring sufficient budgetary allocations for programs. Lotta Sylwander, Country Representative of UNICEF, delivered a powerful message for both events.
She discussed the magnitude of malnutrition among children in the Philippines and emphasized how malnutrition is not just a health issue but also concerns food security, social protection and economics. She urged swift and effective action on this urgent issue. Rene Galera, Nutrition Specialist of UNICEF, presented the costing study of undernutrition. This can be countered with their identified list of nutrition-specific interventions which should be implemented in the First Days for maximum impact.
Representatives from the Department of Health, Ms. Luz Tagunicar, Nutrition Program Manager, Dr. Anthony Calibo, OIC of the Child Health Division, as well as the representative of the National Nutrition Council, Mr.
Reginaldo Guilen, presented their nutrition budgets for Highlights of their presentation include the increasing budget allocation for nutrition in the past 5 years and the increasing coverage of the areas where the nutrition programs are implemented.
The Tier 2 budgets of both agencies, or those items which are not automatic appropriations, include items which aim to strengthen the implementation of the First Days activities. Evident in the discussions of all agencies is the need for a monitoring and tracking system for the allocation and utilization of nutrition-related budget and the consolidation of the efforts of agencies towards achieving the target outcomes of the PPAN. Romeo Dongeto, Executive Director of PLCPD and CRN Convenor, concluded the activity in both Houses by reiterating the necessity of results-based monitoring of budgets and addressing the implementation of nutrition programs at the local level.
He lauded the progress of nutrition-related bills in both Houses and looks forward to their passage this 17th Congress. This was after the sub-committee approved the substitute bill to several bills seeking to amend the Juvenile Justice Act of Instead of lowering the MACR to nine years old, as originally proposed by House Bill 2 and several other bills, the sub-committee opted to retain the MACR at 15 and introduce other measures to strengthen the implementation of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act JJWA.
It is also worth noting that the substitute bill has interventions that extend to children in conflict with the law CICL below MACR, from nine to 14 years old. The substitute bill presented today is a big improvement from the initial bills proposed.
Earlier this year, the Child Rights Network and PAYO launched a nationwide campaign called ChildrenNotCriminals to oppose the bills in the House of Representatives HOR that seek to amend the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act in order to lower MACR from 15 years old to nine.
Filed by Speaker Alvarez and other allies of President Rodrigo Duterte, the move to lower MACR to nine years old was dropped after three months of various technical working group meetings, where advocates and government agencies presented their opposition to said move.
The second batch, organized for participants coming from five barangays of Liliw and 23 barangays of Lusiana, Laguna, was held on May The third and last batch had participants coming from 20 barangays of Sta.
Maria, one barangay from Pakil, and one barangay from Famy, Laguna. This training series aims to review and update the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans BDRRMPs and Contingency Plans CPs of the barangays and to ensure that these plans will be implemented in the barangays. In both training activities, PLCPD led the discussion of the salient provisions of Republic Act No. Right after the discussion, each municipality underwent workshops with their respective facilitators and resource speakers.
After reviewing and updating the plans of each barangay, PLCPD also discussed the importance of adopting a barangay resolution institutionalizing and formalizing the BDRRMP and CP. Ensuring that all barangays will have sustained effort in institutionalizing their plans, PLCPD led the advocacy planning workshop. All barangays from these two batches planned to submit their plans to their MDDRM Officers before the end of May in accordance with the deadline for submission of requirements for the Seal of Good Local Governance of the Department of the Interior and Local Government DILG.
Luibic Jacob, Vice Mayor of Luisiana, Mr. Allan Revano, ABC Chairperson of Luisiana, and Mr. Paulino Montejo, ABC Chairperson of Liliw gave opening messages for their fellow participants and barangay officials.
Chris Raflores led the discussion of the plans of Luisiana, while Ms. Rosa Rica Encelan of PLCPD led the discussion of the plans of Liliw. Barangay Calumpang of Liliw and Barangay San Buenaventura of Luisiana shared with their fellow participants their BDRRMP, CP and advocacy plan. Vincent Soriano, Mayor of Pakil gave a very inspiring and motivating story about the importance of preparing and planning for disasters.
Jared Baldemeca, MLGOO of Famy, gave opening message for the participants. Arlon Chavez led the discussion of the plans of Famy, while Ms.
Rosa Rica Encelan of PLCPD led the discussion of the plans of Sta Maria and Pakil. Barangay Tungkod and Macasipac of Sta Maria and one barangay from Pakil and Famy shared with their fellow participants their BDRRMP, CP and advocacy plan. To kick off the Bata sa Puso ng Batas Discussion Series organized by the Child Rights Network, advocates from civil society organizations and national government agencies, legislators and representatives of legislative offices gathered to discuss the plight of children in situations of armed conflict CSAC and the action points to ensure that they are protected.
Rodel Batocabe, PLCPD member and AKO BICOL representative opened the event by commending the approval of substitute bill, Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict, in the Committee on the Welfare of Children in March Julien Hayois, Child Protection Specialist of UNICEF discussed the relevant statistics on verified Grave Child Rights Violations GCRVs committed against children in situations of armed conflict from to Most violations linked to education occur when schools are used for military purposes.
He urged everyone to consider the recommendations of the UNICEF report, such as including child protection issues on agenda of peace tables as well as respecting the civilian character of schools. Representatives from the Interagency Council on Children in Armed Conflict IAC-CIAC were also present to elaborate on the initiatives of the member agencies.
Normina Mojica of the Council on Welfare of Children CWCwhich chairs the IAC-CIAC, shared about the policies developed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines AFP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government DILG to respond to the issues of CSAC. Bing Diaz of the CRC-Commission on Human Rights CHR relayed the efforts of the CHR to monitor the situation of grave child rights violations. Teddy Baguilat, PLCPD Chair for the House of Representatives, dialogued with the participants, particularly the representatives of the bill authors, to determine needed amendments to the bill.
He also asked them to determine the roles or actions that Congress can take to strengthen the protection mechanisms for CSAC e. Romeo Dongeto, executive director of PLCPD, which serves as the convenor of the Child Rights Network, presented the next steps that advocates and legislative offices can take to further the advocacy campaign for CSAC.
To close the activity, Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy, representative of Bagong Henerasyon Party-list, pledged her commitment as the Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Welfare of Children and a member of the Committee on Rules to ensure the passage of the CSAC bill.
Upcoming activities of the Bata sa Puso Discussion Series include the nutrition budget policy forums in the House of Representatives and Senate and the issue orientation on increasing the age to determine statutory rape.
The results are consistent throughout Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and across all socio-economic classes in the Philippines. Filed by Speaker Alvarez and other allies of President Rodrigo Duterte, the bills are now under deliberation by a technical working group organized by the HOR Committee on Justice. The advocates expressed optimism that instead of lowering MACR, strengthening the implementation of the JJWA—through adequate funding, capacity buildling of implementers, investment in human resource, and public awareness programs—is the more effective, sound, and rights-based solution to the problem of children being involved in criminal activities.
We remain committed to oppose any and all moves to lower MACR. Maria and five barangays in the municipality of Family. This training aimed at reviewing and updating the BDRRMP and contingeny plans of the barangays as well as at ensuring that these plans will be implemented in the barangays.
Alejandro Jamolin, ABC Chairperson of Famy and the Barangay Kagawad of Parang ng Buho of Sta. Maria gave opening messages for their fellow participants and barangay officials. After this, PLCPD discussed the salient provisions of RA or the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Law.
Each municipality underwent workshops with its MDRRMO to review and update the plans. Jay De Chavez, MDRRMO of Sta.
Maria led the workshop of the barangays from Sta. Arlon Chavez led the workshop of the five barangays from Famy. After reviewing and updating the plans of each barangay, PLCPD discussed the importance of adopting a barangay resolution institutionalizing and formalizing the BDRRMP and CP. A template barangay resolution was presented to the barangays.
PLCPD led the advocacy planning workshop in order to ensure that all barangays will have sustained effort in institutionalizing their plans. Bernadette Herrera-Dy, who is also a member of the Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development AFPPD Standing Committee Member on Investing in Youth, and Rep. The Regional Parliamentarians Conference was composed of discussions led by technical experts on trafficking in persons and focused on the situation in South and Southeast Asia, legal and policy frameworks and good practices in prevention, protection, prosecution, repatriation and partnerships.
In one of the sessions, Rep. The Conference on Combatting Human Trafficking culminated in the adoption of the Statement of Commitment which was unanimously adopted by the parliamentarians. Herrera-Dy provided key inputs on revising the language of the commitment to more active expressions such as ensuring zero tolerance against those involved in trafficking instead. The Statement of Commitment reaffirms the crucial role of parliamentarians to review, amend, enact, and enforce legislation on prevention, prosecution, protection, and other measures through accelerated coordination.
Herrera-Dy committed to pursuing actions to strengthen the programs to address trafficking in persons and ensuring the full implementation of the Trafficking in Persons Act. At the end of the conference, Dr.
Mika Marumoto, the Executive Director of AFPPD, led the tribute to PLCPD founder, Sen. Leticia Ramos-Shahani, and asked for moments of silence and prayer. In the Joint Committee Meeting focusing on improving political participation of women and youth, parliamentarians discussed political participation of women and youth, quota for youth and women in parliaments, gender responsive national budgeting and capacity-building support for women and youth running for office.
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Turabin-Hataman shared about the ranking of the Philippines as the only Asian country in the top 10 of the Gender Gap Report and the highest proportion of female legislators in the House of Representatives and its leadership. She also cited the situation in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where majority of the Cabinet members are women. The National Committee Sub-regional Strategy Meeting featured discussions on the AFPPD Strategic Framework, the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs National Voluntary Reviews and AFPPD Legislation Analysis as well as country presentations from Bangladesh, Tonga and Papua New Guinea.
Rabe facilitated the sub-regional group work for the ASEAN region. She discussed the ongoing and upcoming efforts of PLCPD to campaign for the lifting of the Temporary Restraining Order affecting family planning commodities, review of the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health PRRH Law, and efforts to address child, early and forced marriage. In the plenary, Ms. Advocates and stakeholders once again called on decisionmakers of the government, particularly the justices of the Supreme Court SC of the Philippines, to remove barriers to the full implementation of the Reproductive Health and Responsible Parenthood RPRH Law.
The August decision also instructs the Food and Drug Administration FDA and the Department of Health DOH to develop rules governing the registration or re-certification and procurement of family planning products, including the conduct of public hearings as part of the process for issuing product registration.
When we were debating this, we provided scientific evidence and data supporting the importance of RH and family planning.
Meanwhile, Romeo Dongeto, PLCPD executive director, called on the public to support the campaign for the lifting of the TRO affecting family planning. With the TRO in place, we can expect that there will be fewer and fewer choices, which is contrary to the very principle of freedom of informed choice, which the RPRH Law espouses.
Meanwhile, development partners expressed their continuing support to advancing sexual and reproductive health in the Philippines. Aside from PLCPD, the other implementing organizations of the project are the Philippine Business for Social Progress PBSP and four ARMM-based non-governmental organizations: Al-Mujadilah Development Foundation AMDF for Lanao del Sur, Pinay Kilos!
Maria, Famy, Pakil, Liliw, and Luisiana in Laguna. PLCPDs intervention in Laguna aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response system at the community level to ensure timely and live-savings interventions. Through the project, PLCPD will facilitate the development, updating and finalization of Barangay Disaster Risk and Reduction Management BDRRM and Contingency Plans, as well as capacitate emergency response teams on search and rescue and basic life support skills.
Another output of the project is the institutionalization of community development volunteers CDVs and emergency response teams ERTs through the enactment of ordinance. The project is a continuation of a partnership between WFP and PLCPD inwhich mapped national and policies of disaster preparedness and response vis-a-vis policies on food and nutrition security in several provinces of the Philippines, including the province of Laguna.
She was a pioneering advocate of population and development and reproductive health in the country. Her involvement on these issues covers not only her tenure as a politician but virtually all aspects of her public life—as educator, diplomat, citizen, and quintessential public servant. Thank you, LRS, for being a trailblazer. You paved the way for the next generations of policy champions in Congress to sustain the advocacy and push for people-centered laws.
Romeo Dongeto, PLCPD Executive Director, made this call during a press conference together with the Department of Health DOH Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo and Commission on Population Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III.
Enacted in DecemberRepublic Act or the RPRH Law institutionalizes reproductive health program in the country by providing for the following: Since then, the law has faced several challenges before the Supreme Court as its oppositors contested its constitutionality, and, after the SC ruled that the law is constitutional, questioned the procedure by which the FDA certified select family planning products, which prompted the SC to issue the TRO on public promotion, procurement, and distribution of two brands of contraceptive implants.
Dongeto also announced that Purple Ribbon for RH, a broad network of RH advocates in the country, will once again embark on a nationwide campaign calling for the lifting of the TRO. It can be recalled that the group launched a signature campaign on the TRO in November. RH advocates warn that the delay in full implementation of the law will exacerbate the already less than desirable RH situation in the country.
Thus, there is a need to sustain the advocacy, inform the public of the current situation, and resolve the issue in order to see the effects of the law. The successful movement of proposals to revive capital punishment in the legislative mill was not without a good deal of intimidation and blatant disregard of proper argumentation.
Yesterday evening, the death penalty bill was approved on second reading in the House of Representatives. Pro-death penalty legislators prevailed in the voice vote. Anti-death penalty solons led by PLCPD Chair Emeritus Rep. Edcel Lagman attempted to move for nominal voting, an effort that ended in failure as the session was immediately adjourned after the bill was approved. As an organization that seeks to empower and uplift Filipinos through responsive and people-centered legislation, PLCPD is unyielding in its opposition to death penalty because it violates human rights and of its disproportionate impact on the poor.
The poor have limited access to competent legal support to properly rally their cases. Poor inmates have revealed that they admitted to crimes to be incarcerated in the place of high-powered perpetrators, for compensation as well as guaranteed protection for the families they leave behind.
As for pro-death penalty arguments citing crime reduction, local and international criminologists are in agreement that death penalty does not deter crime.
The best deterrent of crime is certainty of apprehension. As such, resources should be invested on improving police performance rather than the incurring costs with executions. Moreover, PNP data also show that incidence of crimes in the Philippines decreased after the death penalty was lifted in Upon removal of the death penalty, the Philippines ratified Optional Protocol 2 OP2 to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ICCPR ina vow to permanently end capital punishment.
Reneging on the said agreement violates this commitment and imperils the validity of our international treaties and trade deals. PLCPD also believes in non-punitive approaches to justice that will still uphold the humanity of offenders. Such means include removing an offender from society to mitigate risk of harming others incapacitationwhich can be accomplished by reasonable terms of imprisonment. Mechanisms can also be put in place so that convicts can be reintroduced into society as productive members after their period of incarceration rehabilitation.
The finality and irreversibility of the punishment of death completely give up on the chance at a life of dignity. PLCPD commits vigilance in the particularly accelerated progress of this legislation which will negate decades worth of gains in the human rights crusade.
We also call on the Senators to exercise prudence as they deliberate the counterpart bill in their chamber. Lowering MACR is anti-human rights and anti-poor. It is a wrong solution to the problem it seeks to address. It goes against the rights and best interests of children, especially those in conflict with the law, the groups said. Instead of lowering MACR, the advocates expressed optimism that strengthening implementation of the JJWA through adequate funding, capacity building of implementers especially at the local government level, investment in human resource, and public awareness programs, among others, is the more proper, sound, and rights-based solution to the problem of children being involved in criminal activities.
Advocates also committed to support filed resolutions in both houses of Congress, such as those by Rep. Kaka Bag-ao and colleagues in the House of Representatives, and Sen. Risa Hontiveros and Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian in the Senate, to review the implementation of JJWA towards the exercise of legislative oversight on implementation in order to come up with policy recommendations to address gaps in the existing law or in its implementation.
The groups also decry how House of Representatives Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, main proponent of the bill, resorts to intimidation to defend the proposal. This is very unprofessional and very undemocratic. The press conference is part of a series of media events that CRN and PAYO have launched to oppose lowering of MACR.
Since January, the groups have conducted regional press briefings in the National Capital Region, Cordillera, Davao, Cebu and Bicol. The groups have also brought the campaign online through the ChildrenNotCriminals social media campaign and an online petition at Change. CEBU City, February 2.
Media practitioners, stakeholders from the academe, government, youth sector and child rights advocates in Cebu gathered in a media forum to oppose the measures in Congress to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility MACR and call for the strengthened implementation of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act JJWA.
Based on the discussions in the technical working group of bill authors and the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council held on February 1, there are proposals by bill authors to negotiate a compromise and lower the MACR to 12 years old instead of 9. Jocelyn Limkaichong of Negros Oriental, urged advocates to stand firm on their position against lowering the MACR to any age and committed her support to the campaign. Margarita Ardivilla, child protection specialist of UNICEF Philippines, and Atty.
Noemi Abarientos, CLB Program Coordinator, discussed the international frameworks such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the provisions of JJWA respectively to reinforce the stand that the law is grounded on core principles of child rights and, when implemented to its full potential, will serve the best interests of the child. A representative from the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council explained the status of the implementation of JJWA, lamenting the gaps in human resources.
Due to the absence of social workers, standard procedures such as handling cases of CICL are not complied with. Councilors from Barangay Sambag II cited their experience of implementing local programs on juvenile justice which took nine years but it was worthwhile seeing the positive changes on the children. Robby Echavez, a psychologist from Magone Homes Don Bosco, emphasized that beyond providing structures and programs, the most crucial aspect to helping children at risk and promoting their resilience is to ensure that they have loving and supportive relationships.
A former CICL, who is among the youth helped by Mr. Echavez, talked about his struggles as a CICL and how he overcame various challenges, thanks to the support of his family, friends and mentors. He is now studying psychology so he can help other youth in need. The media forum is part of a series of activities against the lowering of MACR led by child rights groups CRN and PAYO. Next media activities include: Rio Magpayo and Ms. Maureen Bugatti paid courtesy visit to local government units and Integrated Provincial Health Offices IPHOs in the provinces of Basilan, Tawi-tawi, Maguindanao, and Lanao del Sur from January 16 to The team met Dr.
Rhodora Delgado and Dr. Tahir Sulaik, IPH Officers of Basilan and Maguindanao, respectively, and representatives of the IPHOs of Tawi-tawi and Lanao del Sur. The groups discussed the objectives of the project and how the IPHOs and ARCHES can work together to deliver better RH services to the people of ARMM. The team also paid courtesy visit to Vice Governor Michail K. Ahaja of Tawi-tawi, Mayor Jimuel S. Que and Vice Mayor Abdulsaid Jum Dail of Bongao, and both expressed their full support for the project, hoping to be regularly informed on its progress.
Supported by the European Union, ARCHES is a five-year project that aims to improve the RH situation in ARMM through capacitating health service providers, building the capacity of communities and local organizations, and national and local policy development on RH.
The project is now entering its second phase of implementation. Partners for the project are Oxfam in the Philippines; PBSP for health service delivery and capacity building; PLCPD for policy advocacy; and four organizations based in the ARMM—Al Mujadillah Development Foundation, PINK, Tarbilang Foundation, and UNYPHIL Women—for capacity building of women, young people and communities towards sustaining their own actions on sexual and reproductive health.
During the first part of the workshop, the PLCPD Secretariat developed a project implementation plan that incorporates strategies for implementation, sustainability, risk management, and monitoring and evaluation. With regard to sustainability, PLCPD has committed to advocate for budget allocation especially in the barangay DRRM and contingency plans and work closely with the municipal governments to ensure that LGUs will provide budgetary allocation for their plans.
In the second part of the workshop, resource persons from the Population, Health and Environment PHE Network and the Quezon City DRRM Office were invited to discuss DRR in governance, and the contents and step-by-step process in conducting a barangay DRRM planning that encompasses preparation, mitigation, reduction, rehabilitation, recovery, and the actual action plan.
Contingency planning was also discussed. The final part of the workshop included lectures, demonstration, and exercises on basic life support and search and rescue.
The training was held on January in Quezon City in preparation for the implementation of a project on disaster preparedness and response, which seeks to assist and capacitate 25 barangays in five municipalities in the province of Laguna in their barangay DRRM planning and contingency planning.
The project is supported by UN World Food Programme WFP -Philippines and is a continuation of a previous project in which PLCPD conducted a review of the policy environment and local situation on food and nutrition security in relation to disaster preparedness and response in 10 provinces of the Philippines including Laguna. BAGUIO CITY, January Meanwhile, program implementers at the local level, including Mankayan, Benguet Mayor Materno Luspian; Commission on Human Rights Regional Director Rommel Daguimol; Head of Women and Children Protection Desk, PNP Regional Office-CAR PCI Divina Mencio; Prosecutor of Department of Justice-CAR Atty.
Maribelle Uminga, Head of Baguio City Social Development Center Ms. Ellen Dayag; and a social worker from the Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth, Mr. Johnny Bumakil presented current challenges in implementing the JJWA and how these challenges can be addressed through enough funding, investment in human resources, capacity-building of implementers, and awareness raising and support of immediate social networks of children in conflict with the law, among others.
These suggestions were noted. A short version of the film Bunso by Ditsi Carolino, depicting conditions of children in jail prior to the enactment of the JJWA, was also shown, while a former child in conflict with the law shared his experience as a resident of the RRYC, where he was able to recover and transform his life.
In response, participants committed to support the public campaign to oppose the lowering of minimum age of criminal responsibility. The public forum and media conference are part of a series of activities against the lowering of MACR led by chid rights groups CRN and MACR. This morning of 25 Januarymembers of the House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Correctional Reforms, representatives of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council JJWCand proponents of the bills that seek to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility LMACR from 15 to nine years old, will be having a closed-door meeting to discuss the proposal.
Child rights advocates consider this a potentially pivotal event in the progress of the consolidated LMACR bills in the legislature. There also looms the possibility of negotiations to lower MACR to 12 instead of nine as originally proposed.
This is still an unacceptable compromise which advocates will relentlessly reject. The Child Rights Network CRN reiterates its call for the House leadership to practice due diligence in its course of action on this bill that could put the lives and dignity of Filipino children on the line.
We appeal to the decision makers in the House of Representative to consider all arguments from various disciplines, and to observe reason tempered with compassion in the proceedings for the bills. Before this crucial executive meeting with the proponents—including no less than House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, principal author of House Bill 2, which is one of the five bills filed—we remind our legislators that lowering MACR is detrimental to the best interests of children in conflict with the law CICL and would deny them of their rights to survival and development.
Various studies strongly indicate that criminalizing children leads to recidivism, and in several cases, increasing transgressions not only in frequency but also in gravity. Furthermore, incarceration of children results in lost opportunities for advancement through education and future employment.
Arguments for lowering MACR citing crime reduction ignore the systemic nature of criminality, and as such, requires a systemic approach involving poverty reduction and rehabilitation programs to be addressed. Meanwhile, arguments for lowering MACR on the basis of protecting children from being used by criminal syndicates them violates the same right to protection that it seeks to fulfill, doing more harm than good and proposing a wrong solution to the problem.
The Child Rights Network is consistent in its opposition to all moves to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility, and tireless in its crusade to uphold the dignity of every Filipino child by strengthening the mechanisms and initiatives for rehabilitation and reintegration as provided for by the existing law, the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act.
Said EO reaffirms an important guiding principle of the RPRH — giving Filipinos the full range of choices, most specially couples from disadvantaged sectors, for managing their fertility including modern family planning methods. EO 12 likewise pushes for providing comprehensive and gender-sensitive sex education in schools, as well as the continued pursuit of poverty-alleviation programs all in line with development objectives.
PLCPD is optimistic that the issuance of EO 12 will benefit the six million Filipino women who have unmet family planning needs, two million of whom are poor. RPRH Law was enacted in December after more than one decade of debate in Congress. Republic Act or the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act JJWApromulgated inis a significant legal safeguard for the dignity of the Filipino child.
With this law, youth offenders—most of whom are from disadvantaged socioeconomic sectors—will not be submitted to the dehumanizing conditions in correctional institutions. JJWA likewise provides measures and initiatives to ensure that children in conflict with the law will be rehabilitated, and eventually be reintegrated to the society as contributing members.
This 17th Congress, the protection for the Filipino child provided by JJWA, is in peril. There have been several attempts to revert the minimum age of criminal responsibility to nine.
In fact, six bills supportive of this measure have been filed in the House of Representatives. The bills have already been heard by the sub-committee on Correctional Reforms and are expected to pass soon, with an overwhelming likelihood of getting the same result in its mother committee, the Committee on Justice. The Child Rights Network CRN opposes moves to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility LMACR. CRN as a consortium of child rights advocates, is united in conviction that LMACR is detrimental to the best interests of children in conflict with the law CICL and would impede their rights to survival and development.
Studies have shown that criminalizing children leads to recidivism. Furthermore, jailing children deny them of opportunities for advancement through education, and future employment. Duty bearers are enjoined to remain committed to making the current system work, as there are sufficient measures to hold children accountable for their offenses, while respecting their developmental capacities. There is strong evidence that these measures are effective in restoring and reintegrating children to the community, as documented by child rights advocates.
Focus should be on replicating these positive results to make the law succeed for all children, not amending the said law, and in the process, compromising the welfare of CICL. The speed at which bills for the lowering of MACR progress shows that this measure is supported by House leadership. There is an urgent need for consolidation of support and intensified actions to prevent the bills from further prospering in the legislative mill and retain the minimum age of criminal responsibility at A jail is no place for a child.
We should not allow retrogressive bills such as this to reverse the advances in child protection in the Philippines and put children to jail. Instead, we should support efforts to strengthen and enhance the implementation of Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act. December 21, It is said that a law is only as good as its implementation. This is true for Republic Act No. The controversial bill finally saw the light of day in Decemberafter languishing for more than a decade in Congress.
Four years since enactment on December 21,the law has not been without challenge; after its victory in Congress, all branches of government horizontal and all levels of governance vertical have now become the battleground for RH.
Problems in implementation include: While antagonists to RH may treat the situation as merely a legal battle, the effects of this standoff are all too real.
The lives lost to complications of childbirth and pregnancy, the chance at a bright future lost to an early pregnancy, and the opportunity for parents to provide for the needs of their family lost to unplanned births can never be regained.
While commemorating the fourth anniversary of the enactment the law, we call on duty-bearers to step up and ensure that the law is fully implemented. To local government units: To the Supreme Court: To the local government units: Reproductive Health Law institutionalizes reproductive healthcare program in the Philippines.
After 14 years in Congress, the law was finally enacted in December Since this decision, antagonists to the law have filed petitions to void the registration of certain family products, alleging irregularities in the certification process.
It has also restrained the Department of Health from promoting, buying and distributing select contraceptives. The Philippines did not meet its Millennium Development Goal MDG target of bringing down maternal deaths to 52 perlive births.
The RH Law has been identified as one of the solutions to maternal deaths and teen pregnancies. Advocates are counting on the government to address the existing legal and institutional challenges to its implementation so that the law can deliver on its promise.
Every year on this day, sincethe symbolic Red Ribbon binds together advocates across the globe to remember the lives lost to AIDS, as well as to renew the commitment to fight the spread of HIV. A total of Even with this investment, many young PLHIVs have their health threatened, and their opportunities for development, compromised. There is the risk of lost productivity due to poor physical and mental well-being; also, due to discriminatory policies restricting their employability and mobility.
Less opportunities for young people to be active contributors to the economy may hamper development in a larger scale. In the Philippines, there exist several challenges to HIV response.
We have an outdated AIDS Prevention and Control Act, which restricts access of minors to HIV testing, and consequently, treatment services. There is a need for a comprehensive law that will cover HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. For one, PLCPD is pushing for reforms to the AIDS Prevention and Control Act ofincluding easing the access of minors to HIV testing services.
The Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination, which aims to protect Filipinos from discrimination on the basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression SOGIE and HIV status among others has among its champions, PLCPD members Reps.
Geraldine Roman, Tom Villarin, and Kaka Bag-ao, as well as PLCPD Chairperson for the Senate Sen. In commemoration of World AIDS DayPLCPD, an organization which envisions a life of dignity for Filipinos, joins the call for gender-sensitive, human rights-based approach to HIV response. Teddy Baguilat, PLCPD Chairperson for the House of Representatives, emphasized the importance of reaching out to our spheres of influence regarding the impact of the TRO.
We should increase public discussions on the issue. She said that it seems to have a expanded coverage of the original TRO. Jeepy Perez, Executive Director of the Commission on Population, lamented the repercussions of the TRO which include more unplanned pregnancies, unsafe abortions, higher rates of teenage pregnancies, higher maternal mortality, more poverty, more misery and more desperation among our people especially poor women.
Perez shared that Filipino women have already decided that they only want Policies and programs need to be in place to help them achieve their desired family size. The TRO violates the Constitution especially the rights of women to equal protection and freedom of choice. Klaus Beck, UNFPA Country Representative, explained how sexual and reproductive health rights, which are enshrined in the Reproductive Health Law, are related to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals on health SDG 3education SDG 4gender equality SDG 5economic growth SDG 8 and ending poverty SDG 1.
Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, PLCPD Treasurer, shared the message of long-time RH champion and PLCPD Chair Emeritus, Rep. These include community-based RH campaign drives together with continuous networking and coordination with legislators. In his closing remarks, Mr. Romeo Dongeto, Executive Director of PLCPD, presented the different action points for advocates such as: File motion for intervention; d Ensure appropriate funding for the RH program and prepare for the sunset review of the law; e Campaign for full implementation of law at local level.
Enact RH ordinances; f sustained media campaign. During the opening ceremonies on November 21, child rights champions PLCPD Vice Chairperson for Mindanao Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, PLCPD Chair of the House of Representatives Rep. Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr. Bernadette Herrera-Dy addressed more than 50 children from World Vision International, including three children from Tacloban and VIDES Philippines Volunteer Foundation.
Write to them — today. Elino Bardillon from the Council of Welfare of Children gave their message of support. After the opening ceremonies, the children participated in an essay writing activity and a poster making contest with the theme of ending violence against children.
True to their commitment to the empowerment of children, PLCPD members in the House of Representatives devoted time in the afternoon of November 21 to dialogue with the children. France Castro of ACT Teachers Party-list, coming from her experience as an educator, discussed the practice of positive discipline not only in the home, but also, in the classroom.
Nancy Catamco, answered questions about government programs for real time forex trading system rts youth and teenage parents.
During the session on November 21, Don Bosco School Manila Chorale from VIDES Volunteer Foundation opened the session by singing the National Anthem. Deputy Speaker Abu acknowledged the presence of the children forex 10 pips al giorno members of the CRN as guests of PLCPD members. The said session also included a privilege hour which featured speeches of several PLCPD members.
Binary option success story Castro delivered a privilege speech on stock market brakes state of senior high schools in the country, expressing alarm over the compromised quality of education due to reports of teachers practicing without proper licensure. Nancy Catamco, talked about Indigenous Peoples children and the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics CRVS stock market weighing machine lamented that many Filipino children are denied the fundamental right to a legal identity.
On November 22, Rep. Sarah Jane Elago and Rep. Malou Day training trading forex live sterling Alba graced the event with their poetry-reading performances of pieces by Dr. The Don Bosco School Manila Choir lent their angelic voices to lift the spirits at the event.
Layag, the band of PLCPD Executive Director, Romeo Dongeto performed socially-relevant songs. The winners of the poster-making contest were also awarded. Mark, the artist of the winning poster described how his artwork represented his vision of empowered children escaping violence to a community of love and peace. November 20 marks the day on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child inand the landmark Convention on the Rights of the Child in When we commit to uphold the rights of a child, this means that this right is extended to every child, including children who have come in conflict with the law.
When we proclaim our respect for the dignity of every child, this means that we acknowledge the child a unique being — developing physically, socially, and, most importantly, psychologically.
When we say that we want a just society for every child, we mean justice as inclusion of measures for offenders to be rehabilitated, and, in time, be reintegrated into society as productive, contributing members. Earlier this week, the House of Representatives commenced hearing of a bill seeking to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 15 years old to 9. This proposal House Bill No. We believe that this bill, when enacted, will inarguably compromise the dignity and chance at a bright future of the Filipino child.
We are most concerned that this move will impact children from socioeconomically-disadvantaged sectors who—owing to their living circumstances, or as victims of exploitation—are forced to engage in criminal activities. These children, when involved in skirmishes with the law, will have limited access to good legal support. We urge our lawmakers to consider the best interests of children as they craft responsive and meaningful policies.
The jail is no place for children. November 9, Photo by Sunright H. The launch was done during the monthly flag ceremony of the HOR Secretariat on November 7,with the rousing and engaging speech of PLCPD Chair for HOR, Rep. Participation make money from high alching are given the least priority in current and proposed legislation.
Children have the right to be heard especially about matters concerning them. He also talked about the different deprivations being experienced by Filipino children. For instance, one in every three Filipino children is stunted and chronically undernourished.
The Philippines is also among the top 10 worldwide with the highest number of out of school children at 1. Many children still experience various forms of abuse, neglect and exploitation.
He proudly shared how Ifugao was awarded as one of the most children-friendly local government units during his term for their ordinance prohibiting corporal punishment. Photo by Sunright H. Baguilat said as he closed his message. CRN is an alliance of government and non-government organizations advocating for the enactment of policies that will protect and fulfill the rights of Filipino children.
The Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law RA gave hope to Filipino women to have safe and planned pregnancies. Planned pregnancies would enable couples to achieve their desired number of children, and young people to escape the perils of teen-age pregnancy. Abject poverty has oppressed generations. This is significantly because parents are unable to care and provide for their many children the education and other opportunities necessary to advance in life. The RPRH law gave poor families hope that their dream of a better future can be achieved.
These hopes can only be realized if government fully and efficiently implements a comprehensive family planning program best forex discount broker mandated by law. People rejoiced when the Supreme Court declared the RPRH law as constitutional.
Government prepared for its full implementation, and purchased needed family planning supplies. However, the SC issued a TRO preventing the Department of Health and its agencies from going full blast on its family planning program. This TRO is based on a petition alleging that all contraceptives are abortifacient, and aimed at having these vital commodities totally banned from the market.
This TRO, affects These are the 6. Because of this TRO, no new registration for contraceptives can be approved, and when approved, they can be appealed. New legal cases will ensue and delays will continue. Stocks will run out and contraceptives will no longer be available in the market. Even those with money to buy will not anymore have access to these vital commodities.
Because of this TRO, our teen-pregnancy rates, already one of the worst in the world, will further worsen. The future of more of our young people will be jeopardized. Foran estimatedteen-aged girls will get pregnant. The numbers will soar even higher without contraceptives. Because of this TRO, more women will die due to preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related complications. For this year alone, around 5, Filipinas will perish in giving life.
This is equivalent to 14 women dying per day. Without contraceptives, more children will be orphaned as more mothers pass away. Thus, we earnestly appeal to the Honorable Justices of the Supreme Court for the nri stock trading in india of compassion: Advocacy teams are being mobilized to secure co-authorship for House Resolution filed by Rep.
Kaka Bag-ao, calling on the relevant congressional committee to conduct an oversight hearing on the on the level of implementation of Republic Act No. The teams are also communicating with individual legislators to consolidate support for the preservation of the current minimum age of criminal responsibility. CRN also lauds child rights champions, Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy and Senator Risa Hontiveros, for their efforts in ensuring the passage of the Positive Discipline bill in both houses.
Advocacy activities will be conducted to build support for this issue. With regard to nutrition-related bills, the First 1, Days and expanded maternity protection are gaining ground in both houses of Congress. Both bills were deliberated at the committee level in the Senate, while the expanded maternity protection bill passed the Committee on Women and Gender Equality in the House of Representatives.
The hearing for the First 1, Days in the House Committee on Health is scheduled on November 9 this year. The secondary legislative agenda includes: Constant monitoring will be conducted for the secondary agenda. Advocacy activities will be conducted inside and outside of Congress. These activities and the other efforts of CRN will be accomplished with the support of UNICEF.
Child Rights Network is an alliance of government and non-government organizations advocating for the enactment of policies that will protect and fulfill the rights of Filipino children. In pursuit of the vision to develop CRN into a national network of child rights advocates, CRN plans to expand its membership to include region-based CSOs.
For organizations interested in joining CRN, please contact PLCPD through Ms. Daphne Valdez at daphne. All CRN members are expected to commit to carrying and supporting the legislative agenda of the network. Experts and key officials representing government agencies, civil society organizations CSOsmedia, and the academe was convened by PLCPD in an effort to discuss the impact of climate change to human settlements and how the Philippines must address challenges to achieve climate resilient and sustainable human settlements.
Teddy Baguilat, PLCPD chair for the House of Representatives, as he opened the program. Guide to buying stocks and shares member and AKO BICOL party-list representative Rodel Batocabe also presented the tennessee livestock market prices provisions of the Resilient Housing and Human Settlements Bill, which seeks to institutionalize a framework that will harmonize efforts at all levels of governance and involving as many stakeholders as possible to ensure that the Philippines will have a coherent action towards building resilient and sustainable communities.
Tristan Frederick Tresvalles have also shared their perspectives on achieving sustainable and resilient housing and human settlements in the Philippines. We know that there are several opportunities for pursuing programs and policies on resilient human settlements and make sure that no other supertyphoon will devastate us again like Yolanda.
The next mid-term Philippine development plan and the country strategy towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs will include the pursuit of resilient and sustainable human settlements.
In all of these, it is important to secure that the approach is rights-based and inclusive. As for those who have been resettled, most live in houses botraiders forex substandard construction, with unacceptable or non-existent sanitation facilities, and with limited access to livelihood. PLCPD initiated its campaign on adequate housing and resilient human settlements following the challenges in rehabilitation and reconstruction after supertyphoon Yolanda, brought about by confusing and conflicting policies and programs.
With the premarket stock futures quotes of partners such as Oxfam sa Pilipinas, PLCPD has organized activities such as technical working group meetings, issue orientations and policy advocacy workshops involving policymakers and stakeholders. Risa Hontiveros as she welcomed members and guests during the celebration. With the prevailing belief that a big family is happy family, it was challenging to establish a Population and Development-focused advocacy organization for legislators.
Maintaining her optimism for the new leadership, Senator Shahani concluded by saying that she looks forward to the new President being more supportive of the rights of families to plan the number of children and the spacing of births. As a partner in the Executive guide to forex trading in india basics pdf, National Economic Development Authority NEDA was represented by Deputy Director-General for Policy and Planning Rosemarie G.
Delivering a message on behalf of Director-General Ernesto M. Batocabe shared that with nine members from the Senate and 70 from the House of Representatives, PLCPD is enjoying its largest roster in history — a testament of its commitment to human development. Villarin announced that PLCPD has 27 new members for exchange rate dollar euro april 2016 17th Congress, making special mention of equality champion and neophyte legislator Rep.
Roman of the 1st District of Bataan, who also assumes the position of PLCPD Vice Chairperson for Luzon. An audio visual slideshow featured PLCPD members, officers, and the Secretariat. Angara-Castillo shared how the enactment how to make money reselling web hosting RH Law is a milestone for PLCPD, as well as for its partners in international and local civil society.
Angara-Castillo raised challenges to the mandate of the RH Law, and suggested the creation of a body to ensure the implementation of the same. Baguilat, current PLCPD Chairperson for the House of Representatives, provided an overview of share brokers in fort mumbai legislative agenda for the 17th Congress. The Legislative Agenda for the 17th Congress was discussed in more detail by Rep.
Jocelyn Limkaichong of the 1st District of Negros Oriental, and PLCPD Vice Chairperson for Mindanao Rep. Bag-ao of the Lone District of Dinagat Islands. Represented by key officials, partner organizations gave brief messages. United Nations Population Fund UNFPA Assistant Country Representative Ms. Such partnerships include working with the World Food Programme WFP in the area of Disaster Risk Reduction DRRwhich, Nitrous express money maker kit Country Director Mr.
Martin Bettelley shared, examined the policy environment on FNS at both national and local levels. Melgar related, facilitated the entry of RH advocates in the legislative halls. Garin, Vice Chairperson for Visayas and Rep. Roman, Vice Chairperson for Luzon. Garin admired PLCPD for being a unique institution — an advocacy group of legislators having an independent a secretariat.
As a neophyte legislator, Rep. Roman enthused that it feels good to find a group which shares the same advocacies. The audience requested for an encore, which Sen. The projected housing need of the Philippines for the period of is 5. Included in this gap are the houses for survivors of Typhoon Yolanda who are still waiting for their new homes almost three years later. Delays in the provision of housing units for Yolanda survivors are very concerning, since many of those already built are still unoccupied.
Moreover, those who have moved to permanent houses have limited access to facilities and earn money online and get recharge, as well as livelihood opportunities.
Housing agencies are encouraged to prioritize not only structures but also the other elements of human settlements, such as social preparation and land use. National Economic and Development Authority NEDA Social Development Staff Director III Myrna Asuncion highlighted the significant involvement of LGUs in the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs. She also emphasized that strong political commitment is necessary to institutionalize and mainstream the achievement of SDGs in development plans, investments, programming, and budgeting.
Ramon Fernan of Politracs, Inc. It focuses on the principles of answerability, responsiveness and enforceability to ensure democratic accountability in service delivery. Professor Ladylyn Mangada of University of the Philippines Tacloban elaborated on the application of this framework in their assessment of housing programs for Yolanda-affected communities in Guiuan, Eastern Samar and Palo, Southern Leyte.
Community participation and involvement in the tax implications of pattern day trading and implementation of housing projects were found lacking in both communities.
Romeo Dongeto, Executive Director of PLCPD, presented a bill seeking to institutionalize a national framework for resilient human settlements and urged the participants to support this measure.
The bill is a product of a scoping study of policies governing post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Yolanda-affected communities and a series of discussions and consultations with stakeholders from civil society organizations, government agencies, and various partners. We hope to avoid similar instances in the future.
There exist legal barriers to the full implementation the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health RPRH Law, and we believe that the Chief Executive has the political capital to create a more supportive policy environment for RH initiatives. No output binary options bonus july 2016 depend on him to fulfill this promise.
We understand that there are several pressing issues that the current leadership needs to address. However, reproductive health is an equally important and urgent concern as the country faces several challenges in this area: While the enactment of the RPRH Law in paves the way for the institutionalization of reproductive health care in the country, several challenges block its meaningful implementation: While we respect the independence of the three branches of government and the autonomy of LGUs, we believe that the Chief Executive is in the best position and is bestowed with powers to address the challenges and accelerate implementation of the law.
Together with the many advocates of RH in the country, and the women, mothers and young people who need RH services the most, we call on the President and his cabinet to take this matter seriously.
There is an urgent need for action on the reproductive health situation in the country. We count on the President to fulfill his vow to deliver on RH. Photo by Joie Cortina. This decision is a major setback to recent gains in reproductive health in the country, including the enactment of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health RPRH Law ofwhich guarantees access to the full range of family planning services, among others.
Mistimed pregnancies may prevent a woman from pursuing advancement opportunities, further contributing to their marginalization. Concerns on the hazards philippine stocks to buy hormonal implant use must be assuaged, as there is consensus among family planning experts worldwide on its safety and reliability.
While contraceptive prevalent rate has slowly but steadily increased in the recent years, the Department of Health DOH reports that seven million Filipinas have yet unmet needs for family planning. Currently,units of hormonal implant are being kept in DOH warehouses, pending the lifting of the Supreme Court TRO. Access to these contraceptives could have significantly reduced the number of Filipino women needing family planning services.
Enactment of the RH Law was a year struggle for its champions and advocates from various sectors. After the general election that ran from 5 to 7 Septemberthe recently elected members of the Board of Trustees met on 14 September to fill specific leadership positions in the organization. The following were elected: Chair for the Senate: Risa Hontiveros Chair for House: Teddy Baguilat Vice Chair for the Senate: Sherwin Gatchalian Vice Chair for Luzon: Geraldine Roman Vice Chair for Visayas: Sharon Garin Vice Chair for Mindanao: Emmeline Aglipay-Villar Adviser for National Legislative and Policy Advocacy: Pia Cayetano Adviser for Local Legislative and Policy Advocacy: Sonny Angara Adviser for Institutional Sustainability: Leila de Lima Adviser for Partnership Building and International Linkages: Edcel Lagman was appointed Chair Emeritus, having served the organization for a long time and leading PLCPD during the campaign for the enactment of the Reproductive Health bill.
The oath-taking of new officers and members will be held day training trading forex live sterling the 1st General Assembly for the 17th Congress. September 8, — Nearly three years after the onslaught of Yolanda international name: Haiyanhousing for more than 14, displaced families remains an issue. In a press conference held in Quezon City, typhoon survivors, local government officials, and advocates raised concerns on water access and sanitation in resettlement sites.
Despite concerted efforts by the government, civil society and international organizations, significant challenges remain in the recovery and rehabilitation of the affected communities. In Tacloban City, some 14, families, comprising 40 percent of the total affected families, were targeted for relocation by the national and local governments in astrological analysis of stock market northern barangays.
As of date, only 13 percent of the internally displaced persons IDPs have relocated. Meanwhile, families who have already relocated have to grapple with major problems like scarcity of water, the lack of waste water treatment facilities, inadequate livelihood opportunities, and unclear information on tenurial security. The city government provides some through water trucks at two times a week. According to the city government of Tacloban, the problem of water scarcity has been there even before Yolanda.
Philippine Network of Rural Development Institutes PhilNet-RDI Operations Manager Emynita Tapiru explained that the lack of water has resulted to problems of malnutrition and poverty, inability of children to go to school, and conflicts within families. This diminishes their capacity to buy food. Worse, the mothers often have quarrel with their husbands because they have to look all day for water that they can bring home and their spouses complain that there is not cooked steamed rice when they get back from work.
On the other hand, Lacaba complained about the ineffective condition of their toilet facilities. This causes the water to spill from our toilet bowls. The foul smell from the toilet bowls also comes out of our kitchen sinks. CYSAT and PhilNet-RDI are calling on the National Housing Authority NHA and its developers to improve the septic tanks for every household and to separate the storm drainage from the sewer lines.
They are also recommending that secondary wastewater treatment facilities be installed and ensure that standard or stronger materials be used in the construction of houses.
At the same time the LGU of Tacloban City is calling on the national government and Local Water Utilities Administration LWUA to facilitate the provision of water for the Yolanda Survivors. In particular, they are requesting for the immediate release of the remaining funds of the approved P million-budget to put up the water system in northern Tacloban. Lastly, they are proposing for the allocation of P Oxfam Media, Advocacy and Campaigns Coordinator Marie Grace M.
In all of these, it is the women who bear much of the burden as they perform multiple roles in the household leverage ratio futures trading the society. Inclusion is important roses stock market everyone should benefit from government assistance.
Survivors of typhoon Yolanda lamented that they still do not have access to potable water. In addition to her statement, Ms.
Lacaba shared their concern about the substandard condition of their toilet facilities, recounting that the flooding outside their house causes the water to spill and overflow in their toilet bowls and kitchen sinks. Irene Chiu, City Administrator of Tacloban City supported the claims of Ms.
Community Affairs Officer of Tacloban City, Mr. Tedence Jopson, recommended that government should allocate 4. He also emphasized that people should not be transferred to other places if there are no infrastructure and services. Oxfam Tacloban Rehabilitation Integrated Program TRIP Project Officer Engr.
Israel Infante presented the problems in resettlement sites that they have uncovered. These include health risks from poor sanitation, health risks from shortage and poor quality of water, uncertainty of socioeconomic viability, safety and security issues, and limited social preparation. He recommended forex capital markets careers new york need to expedite the rehabilitation efforts focusing on waste water management, to conduct a comprehensive site planning of permanent settlement sites, to review all subdivision plans to ensure sanitation requirements, to conduct comprehensive information dissemination, and to provide livelihood support.
A couple of national government agencies shared some recommendations during the forum. A representative of the Department of Health recommended that there is a need to conduct an extensive research to determine the extent of water pollution that comes from resettlement areas.
Meanwhile, a representative of the National Economic and Development Authority NEDA Region VIII noted that all problem solving sessions are done in different offices and most of the verdict comes from the national level. She recommended the need to conduct site visitation and change the design of the projects to be more considerate of the actual needs of the communities. InPLCPD conducted a scoping study on the conflicting policies on land and resettlement that affected options futures and other derivatives 8th edition pdf free download pace of post-Yolanda reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Since then, the organization has conducted a series of consultations and working group meetings to consolidate recommendations and craft a bill on resilient housing and human settlements.
In frontstocks how to work on binary options press briefing to close their tour, the MPs urged stakeholders, particularly their counterpart lawmakers and government officials, to ensure the implementation of the RPRH Law.
Now that there is a law, every opportunity must be seized to transform this political gain to a reality for the Filipino people, he further added. The European parliamentarians arrived in Manila on Sunday, August Since then, the delegation has met members and staff of PLCPD; legislators including Albay Representative Edcel Lagman and former Senator and now Taguig Congresswoman Pia Cayetano, both main authors of the law; officials of government agencies that have major roles in the implementation of the law including the Department of Health DOHCommission on Population POPCOMand options trader jobs uk trainee stockbroker National Economic and Development Authority NEDA ; civil society organizations that were at the forefront of the movement for the passage of the law; and the Provincial Government of Benguet and the Municipal Government of La Trinidad led by Governor Cresencio Pacalso and Mayor Romeo Salda, respectively.
The series of meetings with cycle identifier forex groups featured a discussion of the salient provisions of the law and the difficulties in implementation that national agencies and local government units LGUs face, including: This is something that must and can be addressed by the government.
Information and protective put interest rate options that fit their needs must be made available and accessible to young people and their parents. Meanwhile, Sari Tanus, MP of Finland, shared that the most alarming situation for her is that of Filipino adolescents. Yet, this is the sector that needs the services the most. Moreover, a third of all new HIV cases belong to young people aged Reproductive health has come a long way in the Philippines, especially with the enactment of Options trading horror stories Law in The law mandates the provision of maternal health services, almost universal access to a full range of family planning services, information and education on sexuality and RH, and funding for its implementation.
It also prohibits private providers, local government officials, and employers from banning, restricting, or coercing the use of free excel forex trading journal health services.
However, despite the law, best way to make money in organo gold RH indicators in the country are still wanting. Because of this, seven million Filipino women have unmet needs for family planning, according to the DOH.
Poor women have twice the number of children than they desire, while rich couples want and actually have an average of two transfer of property to or from trading stock ato. This is because of the lack of access to family planning services.
More poor women die of complications of childbirth and pregnancy. This is because of the lack of access to maternal healthcare. This is an issue of social inequality as much as it is an issue of health and rights. Eventually, though, we succeeded in getting everyone on board. There must be a way to have all the institutions of society—including the Church—to work together. Aglipay-Villar during an issue orientation on Reproductive Health RH and Sustainable Development Goals SDGs with the media and other concerned stakeholders held in Baguio City today.
PLCPD explained that while progressive legislation such as the Magna Carta on Women and the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health RPRH Law have already been passed, the reproductive health situation of Filipinos, especially the poor women and the young, remains a daunting challenge.
While the enactment of RPRH Law is a significant gain, challenges get in candlestick analysis forex way of its full implementation. Just last year, Congress defunded the budget for purchase of us stock bundle non-professional interactive brokers planning supplies by 1 billion pesos during.
Family planning is one of the elements of reproductive health. Local government units have also reported difficulties in make money delivering rvs the RPRH Law, especially in providing funding and the required human resource. The Philippines did not meet its Millennium Development Goal MDG target of reducing maternal mortality ratio to 52 deaths perlive births.
As ofthere are deaths perlive births or about 15 maternal deaths a day. Enshrined in the SDGs is the promotion of reproductive health and family planning, which bbinary binary option strategies e crucial in health and socio-economic development. The issue orientation was organized by PLCPD in partnership with the Provincial Government of Benguet and a consortium of civil society organizations led by the Forum for Family Planning and Development.
Benguet Vice-Governor Florence Tingbaoen, DIWA Party List Representative Aglipay-Villar, Ifugao Representative Baguilat, and PLCPD Executive Director Dongeto shared messages during the orientation.
Authors and supporters of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health and Law vowed to support adequate funding and help in untangling various issues that block its full implementation. Tan, to discuss strategies for defending the budget for RPRH Law implementation, particularly the provisions within the proposed budget of the Department of Health Cairo stock exchange market. PLCPD members Deputy Speaker Sharon Garin, Rep.
Joey Salceda, and Rep. Helen Tan participated in the forum. Helen Tan opened the event by sharing her insights on the gains and milestones in the RPRH Law implementation, such as the roll-out of the National Implementation Team NIT. She also highlighted the need to strengthen bottom-up strategies in the implementation of the law, since there is a commissioni forex iwbank mismatch on what the people cz 452 scout stock and what is available.
Supply should be based on the actual demand and needs of clients. Bayugo, Undersecretary of Commissioni forex iwbank, presented the budget of the Family Health Office FHO of the DOH, where the line items for the RPRH programs are primarily lodged. He explained that the 4. Commodities, Advertisements Advocacy and Health Promotion, Capacity Building, Subsidy, Research, and Administrative How to make money reselling web hosting. The proposed budget for family planning supplies decreased from million pesos in to million.
This decrease in the budget is related to the limitations caused by the temporary restraining order TRO on the procurement and distribution of Implanon and the suspension of granting new certifications for many other family planning commodities. There is an increase in the proposed budget for POPCOM for from million pesos in to million pesos. Building up on his argument on the correlation of economic status and population growth, Dr. Several challenges to the implementation of the RPRH law were discussed at the activity.
These include the TRO on Implanon, a long-acting and reversible family method preferred by many women. Bayugo relayed that they already coordinated with the Office of the Solicitor-General to help them satisfy the requirements of the Supreme Court.
Another challenge discussed is the delay in the full implementation of the comprehensive sexuality education program of the Department of Education DepEd.
According to DepEd Director Ella Naliponguit, sex education is already integrated into the K curriculum, but they are still facing challenges in select option in javascript dynamically select its successful implementation.
Capacitating teachers, administrators, and other key personnel remain to be one of the problems faced by the DepEd until now. NIT Chair and former DOH Secretary, Dr. Esperanza Cabral, shared that PLCPD members may refer to a report on the cost of the implementation of the RPRH Law. This report will show a good estimate of the total spending on family planning commodities. In addition, FHO will submit to the legislators present during the meeting a summary of balances on their inventory of FP commodities and budget such as the number of procured and unused commodities, and amount of utilized and not utilized budget.
The National Economic and Development Authority NEDArepresented by Social Development Staff Director III Myrna Stock market short symbols nasdaq, shared about Ambisyonwhich recognizes the significance of promoting RH as a key strategy in economic and social development of the country.
PCFI organized an issue orientation on food security and nutrition on August 16 at the House of Representatives. The activity aimed to raise awareness among the participants on the issue of food and nutrition security and galvanize a constituency to support initiatives for the issue.
Sixteen legislators, including PLCPD members, as well as legislative staff of PCFI members participated in the activity. Deputy Speaker and PLCPD Vice Chair for Visayas, Rep. She highlighted that addressing nutrition will contribute to a more productive population and help improve the economic productivity of our country.
Rodel Batocabe, PCFI President and AKO BICOL Party-list representative, urged PCFI members to join him and other PLCPD members to champion the issue of food security and nutrition, stressing that food security is a concern of everyone especially in the context of climate change. Praveen Agrawal, the UN-WFP Country Director, presented the dire situation of malnutrition in the country—especially among children—with the steadily increasing rates of stunting and wasting.
Finally, he implored the legislators to represent the voice of the people and fulfill their roles to craft laws, ensure provision of budget for programs, and demand accountability and exercise their oversight function on the implementation of the law. Director Carlos Magnaye of the Department of Agriculture DA noted that President Rodrigo himself gave the directive to ensure ameritrade stock price history and affordability of food.
Their legislative agenda includes: Free irrigation, Coco Levy Fund, National Land Use Act, Urban Agriculture, Philippine Native Animal Development Act, and the Right to Food Act.
Reginald Guillen of the National Nutrition Council NNC explained that their priority programs include: During the open forum, the issues discussed were: Angel Imperial, Director of Public Affairs of the National Food Authority, was present to answer concerns regarding rice self-sufficiency and rice importation. Romeo Dongeto, PLCPD Executive Director, closed the activity by encouraging the legislators present to support initiatives for food security and nutrition and join PLCPD in its campaign for food security and nutrition security in the country through policy reforms.
Governor Cresencio Palcaso welcomed Mr. Maida Ojeda, accompanied by Benguet Provincial Health Officer Dr. During the courtesy call, Mr. Magpayo updated the Governor on sri lankan stock market performance status of the project on RH that PLCPD is implementing in the province.
The Governor was also given a copy of the resolution on the adoption of the Reproductive Health RH Law in Benguet and the ordinance creating the Provincial Advocacy Team PAT of Benguet, which is yet to be convened after the May elections.
The Governor thanked PLCPD for its efforts in providing assistance to the province and instructed the Provincial Administrator to issue an Executive Order reorganizing the PAT. He also agreed to convene the PAT during the Provincial Policy Forum on RH scheduled on August 19 fidelity best buy stock Baguio City. At the same time, he instructed Dr. Ojeda to set the dates of the other activities, such as the capacity building for local legislators and the policy development writeshop for PAT and members of the Council and trading social option binaire Strategic Advocacy Planning Session in September.
In a separate meeting, with the Governor, the Provincial Planning and Development Office, and the World Food Programme WFP focal person for Benguet, Mr. Magpayo presented the final version of the recently conducted provincial baseline study on food and nutrition security in relation to disaster preparedness and response. The Governor suggested that the report specify policy recommendations to be enacted, and how the report can assist LGUs to come up with policies for the effective implementation of laws on food and nutrition security and disaster preparedness and response.
Multi-sectoral representatives, including members of the executive and legislative branches of government as well as civil society organizations, participated in the conference at Crowne Plaza, Galleria Manila, in Quezon City on July The aim of the conference was to foster cooperation among stakeholders, and for the participants to bot stock market on a unified agenda on forex software collection and nutrition for the next six years.
The event began with a review of the state of food and nutrition security in the country, and the importance of government and civil society working together for its improvement, especially in the advent of a new administration.
There was also a panel of speakers from various organizations relevant to food and nutrition security. Martin Bettelley, WFP Deputy Country Director, located food and nutrition security in the framework forex platform leverage basic human rights.
He also emphasized the importance of nutritious and safe food in the battle against malnutrition, especially among Filipino children. He also discussed current WFP programmes, such as country-wide capacity-building efforts in standardizing and automating food pack production, and school feeding programs in Mindanao.
Enrique Tayag, Department of Health DOH Assistant Secretary, emphasized be forex guru indicator and nutrition security as a component of the Sustainable Development Goals SDGsand the alarming trends in the nutritional status of Filipinos.
Tayag also discussed the DOH nutrition strategic framework to deliver health services to the people. He also presented the Duterte Health Agenda, which includes attaining the SDGs, combatting diseases, arranging an effective health service delivery network, and ensuring universal health care.
Assistant Secretary Elmer Distor of the Department of Agrarian Reform DAR emphasized the connection between life and land, especially among farmers. He stressed rice self-sufficiency as a possible solution to the stabilization of staple food supply. Nonetheless, land use conversion and problems in the implementation of agrarian reform are among the most serious issues faced by farmers.
Cecilia Acuin how do loan originators make money the Food and Nutrition Research Institute FNRI acknowledged nutrition as a foundation of health, and called for a whole-of-society approach to food and nutrition programs.
Acuin emphasized the co-existing states stockbroker career advancement sobra overweight or obese and kulang underweight, stunted, or wasted among Filipino adults and children, respectively, and the prevalence of nutritionally-at-risk pregnant women.
Director Angel Imperial Jr. 60 second binary option robot trading strategy Imperial also discussed the need for legislative oversight and intervention in ensuring a functional inter-agency mechanism for food and nutrition security. AAMBIS-Owa representative Sharon Garin, PLCPD Vice Chair for Visayas and former chair of the HOR Special Committee on Food Security closed the morning by sharing the results of a PLCPD evaluative study on the implementation of three landmark laws on food and nutrition, namely, the Nutrition Act of the Philippines, the National Food Authority Act, and the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of the Philippines, and emphasized the need for better coordination, budget legislation, and oversight on implementation of laws, particularly at this opportune time.
In the afternoon, two workshop groups discussed issues for: In the executive arena, common goals livetradesystem afl In the legislative arena, common goals include: Other agreed-upon concerns include the importance of an inclusive and forex technical analysis website approach to food and nutrition security, as well as the climate resiliency of interventions.
The agenda was embodied in a statement that was read and turned over to Senator Risa Hontiveros, who committed to work with other policymakers on pursuing the actions listed in the agenda. A briefing with the media was also part of the event. The Philippine Action for Youth Offenders PAYO and the Child Rights Network CRN vehemently oppose the proposal to lower the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility MACR from 15 drupal form select disable options old to 9 years old.
This move undermines the best interest of the child and will not solve the problem of children committing crimes. It distracts us from the real reasons why children offend such as poor parenting and supervision, peer pressure, social isolation, family conflict, and poverty. Moreover, it is an impulsive reaction to public perception and media hype that the number of crimes committed by children has increased since the enactment of the law. This perception is unfounded.
There is no clear evidence to back this claim and no attempt has been made to analyze the possible factors that influence the crimes committed by children. Lowering the age of criminal responsibility will result to negative consequences for children and the public.
It will increase the number of children detained for long periods of time, making them more likely to become hardened offenders. Research also shows that detaining or incarcerating children is more damaging to them than beneficial. Detention may also increase the likelihood that young people will recidivate, compromising public safety. Lowering the MACR further reinforces the existing situation of syndicates using younger children in their criminal activities.
Our focus should be on catching the adult syndicates instead of punishing the children, who are clearly the victims in this situation. Emerging knowledge about cognitive, psychosocial, and neurobiological development in adolescence also provides evidence that young people should not be held to the same standards of criminal responsibility as adults. This, along with the influence of criminogenic environments where children reside i. Our Congress took thirteen years to craft the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of JJWA.
Init was amended to improve provisions on the administration of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council JJWChandling repeat offenders and children at risk of offending, and providing 2 minute one two trade binary option strategy and rehabilitative services for CICL.
The MACR was preserved at 15 years old. It is imprudent to cast aside all the years of diligent study and in-depth discussions to formulate a Restorative Juvenile Justice system in the Myer city boxing day trading hours without careful research and in consideration of the current facts and laws promoting and protecting the rights of children.
There are indeed challenges in implementing the JJWA and these must be effectively addressed. However, difficulties in implementing the law cannot be used to justify the amendment; otherwise, the rights of children will be compromised merely on the basis of expediency. This does not mean ignoring the complaints of duty bearers tasked to implement the law.
There are legitimate concerns that must be attended to by means of thorough study of processes to assist CICL and children at risk. What is glaring, however, is the lack of evidence-based information to support the moves to lower the MACR and the negative impact of criminalizing children.
Lowering MACR is a violation of the right of the child to genuine protection. Effective indicator binary options strategy this time, let us focus our efforts on fully implementing the JJWA, supporting and capacitating duty bearers so they can effectively execute their responsibilities under the law.
Let us support programs that strengthen families and teach parents how to effectively raise their children without the use corporal punishment and violence which have been found to increase delinquent behaviors in children. Moreover, Effective programs and services to prevent young people from offending or re-offending, to facilitate diversion of CICL, and to restore those who have been harmed through restorative justice practices must be established. The jail is no place for a child.
In the true spirit of our Constitution, our legislators must recognize the vital role of the youth in nation-building earn money online via ptc promote and protect their nse-future option market watch, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being.
The Philippine Action for Youth Offenders PAYO is a coalition of 16 civil society organizations and several individuals working together for the realization of a just and humane society for children in conflict with the law CICL. Upholding the principles of Restorative Justice, it promotes and protects the rights of CICL through advocacy, lobbying, training, research, and networking.
The Child Rights Network CRN is an alliance of government and non-government organizations advocating for the passage of national laws that will protect and fulfill the rights of Filipino children. CRN member-organizations adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child UNCRC which was ratified by the Philippine government in July The Impact of Incarcerating Youth in Detention and Other Buy and sell stocks on etrade Facilities.
A Justice Policy Institute Report by Barry Holman and Jason Ziedenberg [2] Steinberg, L. Less guilty by reason of adolescence: Developmental immaturity, diminished responsibility, and the juvenile death penalty. American Psychologist, 58 12[3] Steinberg, L. A social neuroscience perspective on adolescent risk-taking. Maverickmoneymakers review Review, 28, A copy of the statement with the complete list of signatories may be found here.
PLCPD Executive Director Romeo Dongeto expressed grave concern about House Bill No. In many cases, they are pushed to do crime by poverty and parental neglect or abuse. So why jail children in conflict with the law CICL when they are actually victims of circumstance?
Congress should follow his example and abide by UNCRC. Dongeto also urged the government to strengthen programs for CICL, underscoring the need for diversion or rehabilitative services. Conducted in partnership with the Institute for Strategic and Development Studies ISDS and with the support of World Food Programme WFP Philippines, the study looked into the implementation of three crucial FNS-related laws and focused on recommendations for Congress.
Opening the program, PLCPD Vice Chair for Visayas and House of Representatives HOR Special Committee on Food Security Chair Sharon Garin, stressed the need to prioritize meaningful legislation on for food and nutrition security because of the reality that while almost majority of Filipinos belong to the agricultural sector, majority of the poorest Filipinos are farmers and fisherfolk.
She also welcomes the Sustainable Development Goals, crafting of the next mid-term national development plan, and policy agenda formulation of the next administration and Congress as entry points for furthering the advocacy for FNS. Presented by ISDS senior research associate Allan Delos Reyes, the paper looked into the implementation of the Nutrition Act of the Philippines, the Presidential Decree that created the National Nutrition Council NNCthe National Food Authority Act of the Philippines, the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act AFMAand subsequent legislation or executive policies that further amended them.
Delos Reyes focused on the mandates created by law, the structures created, policy directions and programs, as well as funding that involved agencies have invested in their implementation. The findings reveal that in the implementation of the laws, agencies may have clear mandates on paper but overlap in actual implementation.
Moreover, since their enactment, there has been no strategic funding and investment in resources including human resource to ensure that the mandates are carried out efficiently and effectively.
Finally, the devolution of services created by the Local Government Code of has had less than desirable implications on food and nutrition security because not all local government units LGUs have the capacity to implement the programs mandated by various laws. For his part, Representative Baguilat stressed the recommendations mentioned in the paper, such as the enactment of the National Land Use Act NLUAa bill that has been filed and re-filed every Congress and is seen to contribute not only to the harmonization of land use in the country but also to food and nutrition security as it seeks to protect prime agricultural lands.
For Congressman Baguilat, the other important role of Congress that needs to be exercised and enhanced—for both legislators and Congress secretariat—is review and oversight, such as the one that needs to be done for AFMA. Finally, he stressed the need to find ways to strengthen the partnership between national agencies and local government agencies in the implementation of laws for FNS. In the open forum, participants coming from executive and legislative branches of government, academe and civil society, brought up several points for refining the assessment and recommendations of the paper, including the role of women in FNS, inclusion of fisherfolk as an integral sector in FNS, investing in research and development in agriculture, promoting agriculture among the youth and education for farmers, and ensuring information dissemination down to household-level.
In his closing, he stressed that while food and nutrition security is multi-faceted and needs multi-sectoral and whole-of-society approach to be achieved in the country, Congress has a crucial role to play—whether in the form of new policy proposals, pro-active and purposive budget allocation, or review of existing laws and exercise of oversight function on the implementation of laws.
Dongeto recognized that while the focus of the paper is Congress, it is equally important to work with national government agencies and local government units to ensure meaningful implementation of food and nutrition security policies. Sharon Garin, PLCPD Vice Chair for Visayas, opened the event by reiterating that reproductive health is about giving equal opportunities and upholding the right to choose. For her, the battle for RH is far from over but she is hopeful for the new Congress as she strives to support and defend the RH law, especially on the budget.
Junice Melgar, the Director of the Family Health Office of the Department of Health, explained that due to excessive procurement in the previous years, not all family planning commodities are being absorbed and utilized by the communities through local government units LGUs. This has resulted in lower budget allocations for family planning commodities since the existing stock is still sufficient until She emphasized that the issue of budget goes beyond the numbers on the spreadsheets but is in fact affected by challenges in service delivery and implementation.
Melgar also discussed some issues and challenges on the implementation of the RPRH, including the following: Esperanza Cabral, Chair of the National Implementation Team for RPRH Law, concurred that the ability to generate consumption data is very inadequate.
Without these data, the government will not be able to utilize and plan the consumption needs of the people for the next budget cycle.
Bloomberg Philippines Interview: Stock PicksSecretary Cabral suggested that there should be a monitoring instrument to obtain accurate, credible and timely data. PLCPD Vice Chair for Luzon, Rep. Teddy Baguilat stressed that there is a need to capacitate legislators on how to navigate and monitor the budget process. He also shared his experiences as a local chief executive in Ifugao, observing the gap between the actual preferences and supplies provided for RH and family planning needs of women.
Baguilat suggested that LGUs should take the initiative in creating their own ordinances to establish strong programs and funding for services on reproductive health. In the open forum, PLCPD member, Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar emphasized the need to improve the educational system especially for boys so they would gain sufficient knowledge on how to respect and support sexual and reproductive health rights SRHR of both men and women. Several suggestions also emerged from participants, including: For the participants, these are all issues that have implications not only on the budget but have real impact on the health and welfare of Filipinos.
Romeo Dongeto, PLCPD executive director, presented the profile of the 17th Congress and discussed the milestones, opportunities and challenges in the next several years. These include the crafting of the next mid-term national development plan and development of national Sustainable Development Goals indicators. He stressed that the one of the major takeaways from the activity was the need for improved collaboration among NGAs, LGUs, legislators, CSOs in proposing and supporting budget allocations responsive to the actual needs in implementation.
Baguilat and Aglipay-Villar closed the activity with their messages of gratitude to the RH community for their commitment in defending the RH law. Speaking at the regular Pandesal Forum in Quezon City, PLCPD executive director Romeo Dongeto said that the next administration and Congress will be tested on their commitment and actions towards ending the most persistent and pervasive problems of the country, including hunger and malnutrition.
He also reminded the incoming government officials of the new Sustainable Development Goals, which rest on the importance of human development in building a brighter future. He stressed that number two among the 17 global goals is ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture.
According to Dongeto, achieving food and nutrition security should begin with the review of the implementation of existing laws and programs. There are at least 21 government agencies with mandates that directly or indirectly affect the many facets of food and nutrition security.
On one hand, one in every 10 Filipino adults suffer from chronic energy deficiency, according to the National Nutrition Survey. The next government should develop the countryside, create sustainable livelihood and help farmers and fisherfolk withstand the impact of climate change and natural disasters, he added.
In his opening remarks, PLCPD Executive Director Romeo Dongeto stressed the importance of reproductive health especially of mothers and the youth in building a stronger republic. He underscored the primacy of informed choice of couples, women and youth in planning their families and protecting their reproductive health.
Dongeto also lamented the negative consequences of the 1 billion peso-budget cut on family planning services for Dongeto challenged local government units to step up their own efforts and provide funds on their own capacity to ensure free reproductive health services for their constituents. Poorer constituents may also access reproductive health services through non-government organizations, said Dr.
Junice Melgar, director of the Family Health Office- Department of Health. Juan Antonio Perez, Executive Director of the Commission on Population, added. For her part, former Health Secretary Esperanza Cabral, convener of the Purple Ribbon for RH Movement, emphasized the need for RH information and services and its importance in addressing the needs of the family and the nation amid scarce resources. Family planning enables parents to provide for their children. Secretary Cabral challenged voters in the audience to vote for candidates who stand up for RH and champion the meaningful implementation of the RH Law.
Meanwhile, ANG NARS Party-list Rep. Leah Paquiz, who graced the forum, pledged her continuous support for RH, stressing that women have the right to informed choice. She shared about her advocacy to support health workers, increasing compensation and building the capacity of barangay health workers and public nurses.
Cris Yambot, who represented BAYAN MUNA Rep. Colmenares has pushed for several measures that seek to protect women from violence, promote maternal and child health and nutrition, end discrimination against women and LGBTs, and increase budget for health.
PLCPD conducted RH advocacy activities in Project 6, Quezon City; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; La Trinidad, Benguet; Lagawe, Ifugao; Cotabato City; and Tabaco City, Albay. The public forum was organized in partnership with the officials of Brgy. A Voters Education Forum and Musical Concert on Climate Resilience and Adequate Housing at Pescadores Restaurant, Malabon City last April More than participants from government agencies, civil society organizations, and local community members participated in the activity, which discussed pressing issues on climate resilience and adequate housing.
Various speakers including PLCPD executive director Mr. Romeo Dongeto, Zone One Tondo Organization ZOTO executive director Mr. Butch Ablir, and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council HUDCC Dir. Significant gaps are still apparent in housing programs and initiatives more than a year after Typhoon Yolanda.
She stressed how survivors need not only physical structures but also livelihood opportunities and other basic services, including access to safe and potable water supply, among others. In response, Director Rivera explained that while all housing agencies follow the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management NDRRMC framework, but there are still significant gaps that need to be addresses, including: Candidates then presented their legislative agenda for climate resilience and adequate housing.
Leo de Guzman of Sanlakas Party-List enumerated their priority issues: Cris Yambot represented PLCPD member and senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares. During the open forum, the participants asked about the issues on the increased pension and plans for demolished houses and reclamation areas. Regarding the issue of pension, Atty.
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Yambot confirmed that senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares will continue his efforts for the passage of the bill and is gathering support from his fellow legislators. On the issue of demolition, Sanlakas reiterated that they are advocating for increased funding and subsidies for on-site and in-city rehabilitation efforts which should be people-centered.
Lastly, both representatives oppose the reclamation efforts and will continue to defend the rights of fisherfolk. Vote for Change issue-based campaign and was organized in partnership with ZOTO and with the support of ICCO Cooperation.
The two sites selected, provincial capital La Trinidad and municipality of Tublay, have been consistently commended for their agriculture, nutrition and disaster risk reduction and management DRRM programs and policies. The participants dialogued with the provincial officials of Benguet including the Provincial Health Officer, Provincial Agriculture Officer and Provincial DRRM Officer as well as their counterparts at the municipal level in both La Trinidad and Tublay.
The provincial officers shared about the support services they provide to farmers such as soft loans and technical assistance, capacity-building for municipal and barangay level workers, and information dissemination on health and nutrition in medical missions and in health centers. Mayor Edna Tabanda of La Trinidad discussed how the local government, in cooperation with Benguet State University, supports farmers in improving the quality of their produce through organic farming and facilitating the marketing and sale at various commercial outlets.
The municipal officers of Tublay talked about their innovative agriculture and nutrition programs that hinge on the convergence of various sectors and on the adoption of national programs and frameworks to suit the needs of their citizens. Study tour participants were also invited to the municipal agriculture center where they produce compost, vermicompost and mokusaku, a Japanese-introduced technology of using wood vinegar as pesticide and soil conditioner.
Those visited in La Trinindad and Tublay grimly talked about their difficulties to cope after Typhoon Lando. Nevertheless, they credited the local government units LGUs for being pro-active in providing assistance to farmers even before they seek help from the offices.
Study tour participants also interacted with the organic farmers of La Trinidad and Tublay at their respective farms. The farmers expressed their appreciation for organic agriculture and interest to continue its practice.
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They lamented limitations in financial and physical resources, such as irrigation facilities and more appropriate and marketable seeds. These discussions enriched their understanding of the state of food security, organic agriculture, and the implementation of key policies on food and nutrition security. Some existing laws that need to be revisited as identified by the participants include: The activity commenced with the presentation of photo essays developed by the participants, representing their assessment and recommendation of food and nutrition security in Benguet.
The LGU representatives chose Ms. The forum brought together lead government agencies, Congressional committees, and civil society organizations to discuss pressing food and nutrition security concerns and contribute in drawing the policy agenda for the 17th Congress. Thus the government needs to seriously undertake measures to promote food and nutrition security. The absence of even one in the equation will hamper the goal to end hunger and malnutrition.
Angeles shared strategies to help promote food security, most of which were pioneered in UPLB, such as product diversification, support for research and development, and encouraging the youth to invest in farming as a viable profession. As a form of response, government agencies shared their programs and policies to address challenges to food and nutrition security.
Undersecretary Rosalina Bistoyong of the Department of Agrarian DAR reform shared that DAR just started a partnership with WFP to help farmers, especially in disaster-prone areas, to increase productivity and help expand and ensuring a fair market for them. Meanwhile, Department of Agriculture representative Ulysses Lustria emphasized the Philippine Development Plan framework, which centers on productivity in agriculture and fisheries, making growth inclusive for all basic sectors.
Congressional Committee Secretaries Cecilia Reyes Food SecurityConsolacion Galang Agriculture and FoodRita Macabulos Agrarian Reformand Service Director of the Congressional Planning and Budget Research Department Novel Bangsal also responded and shared legislative proposals that seek to address food and nutrition security issues lodged in their respective committees. Civil society organizations, Philippine Network of Food Security Programs in the Philippines and the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement, both represented by their heads, Ms.
Estrella Catarata and Mr. Isagani Serrano, respectively, also shared perspectives to achieve food and nutrition security. These are through community-based initiatives, investing on climate resilient and high value crops, organic farming, closing the information gap, and pushing for policies that will push forth food and nutrition security.
Ultimately, the following areas for reform were identified and discussed by speakers and participants in the forum: Reproductive health advocates and leaders from various sectors joined voices to step up pressure on candidates to ensure the full implementation the Reproductive Health Law. In a press conference in Quezon City today, the Purple Ribbon for RH Movement — a broad coalition of groups and individuals who pushed for the enactment of the RH Law — urged national and local candidates to prioritize public education on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and the delivery of reproductive health services, including modern family planning methods.
Representatives from various marginalized sectors, such as the urban poor, the youth, people living with HIV, persons with disability, workers and community health workers, stressed the importance of RH information and services that will address the specific needs of their sectors. They decried the cut on the budget cut on family planning, lamenting that defunding the implementation of the RH Law gravely affects their sectors and will reverse the gains in maternal and family health and development.
Meanwhile, in a statement, former health secretary Dr. Esperanza Cabral, convener of the Purple Ribbon for RH Movement, challenged candidates to bare their position and plans on RH and stop dancing around the issue. Cabral lamented that reproductive health was not discussed in the Comelec presidential and vice presidential debates.
Candidates have not substantively addressed the calls of many advocates for stronger commitment to fully implement the RH Law. Do not go against the current. Otherwise, you will not want to be on the wrong side of history. The forum was attended by city councilor candidate Sheina Onrubia, Tabaco mayoral candidate Krisel Lagman, and representative of Ako Bicol Partylist Nico Guillermo.
Romeo Dongeto encouraged the participants to raise their voice in the upcoming elections in choosing leaders who champion the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law amidst the recent 1 billion peso-budget cut on family planning services. POPCOM Regional Director Ms. Magdalena Abellera stated that Region V has the third highest number of young people who have read pornographic materials.
She also showed the increasing proportions of young people who have engaged in sex before the age of 18, from Teenage pregnancy in Region V is continuously increasing, from 1, in to 2, inaccording to Population Management Bureau Population Program Officer III Mr.
However, as of first quarter this year, recorded teenage pregnancies is lower than by first quarter of last year. Department of Health Family Health Cluster Coordinator Mr. Dave Plopinio reported the increasing contraceptive prevalence rate in the region from Tabaco mayoral candidate Lagman and Ako Bicol Partylist representative Guillermo acknowledged that access to facilities and services is one of the biggest issues in Tabaco.
They believe that fast and reliable service is needed to be prioritized in the implementation of RH. However, DOH is continuously providing information and setting up clinics in communities so they can access services, according to Mr. Plopinio and Ako Bicol Partylist representative Guillermo said that the solution to the increasing HIV cases is a strong HIV awareness campaign.
Altavano stated that knowledge on HIV and free HIV counseling and testing must be disseminated to the public. Availability of funds is crucial in the implementation of RH Law. Thus, City Councilor Candidate Onrubia pushed for the inclusion of reproductive health budget in the barangay budget in her previous term.
Tabaco mayoral candidate Lagman also believes that additional fund is needed to prevent further increase in new HIV cases. PLCPD executive director Romeo Dongeto stressed the need for a coherent policy and effective programs to address the growing threat of climate change and fully rehabilitate disaster-stricken communities. The elections is an opportune time for people to make the government accountable for the anemic response of the government to challenges posed by strong natural disasters recently that have affected millions of Filipinos, Dongeto said.
The right to adequate housing is backed by international conventions and national laws, said Roy Cabonegro of the Commission on Human Rights. Adequate housing means affordable, culture-sensitive, disaster-resilient housing with security of tenure and access to basic utilities, services and livelihood, Cabonegro explained.
The sheer magnitude of recent typhoons, specifically Yolanda, has made the task of the government to provide permanent resettlement more difficult, which may have compromised the right of Yolanda survivors to adequate housing, according to Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council HUDCC Director Mylene Rivera.
Inthe government issued Administrative Order No. However, there are still thousands of families living in transition homes or in danger zones. People have been prohibited to build houses in danger zones — areas vulnerable to natural disasters that were identified in a joint memorandum circular by the Departments of Environment, Defense, Public Works and Highways, and Science and Technology, added Dir.
However, there is still the need to complete geo-hazard mapping of the entire country and to integrate this in local land use plans. Enacting a national land use law is also critical in identifying areas suitable for housing, safe from natural hazards, said Rep. Rodel Batocabe, chair of the House of Representatives Special Committee on Climate Change. Local government units who already have their land use plans must revise them according to new data on geo and meteorological hazard mapping and should now identify sites for evacuation and relocation, Rep.
On the part of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board, regulation officer Julie Murita Torres highlighted their work in formulating guidelines for comprehensive land use plans CLUPsreviewing existing CLUPs, and providing technical assistance to LGUs in CLUP development. Batocabe also pressed for mainstreaming of climate change in government policies and programs.
He urged the government to provide sufficient support to vulnerable communities and ensure they have sustainable livelihood, or in the case of farmers affected by El Nino and fisherfolks displaced by Yolanda and now living in relocation areas away from the sea, they should have alternative sources of income.
Meanwhile, National Housing Authority NHA Assistant General Manager Froilan Kampitan admitted there is lack of understanding among government officials of climate change and its impact. Cabonegro pointed out that many disaster victims, particularly in Yolanda-affected areas, have not been given certificates of land ownership award CLOAs under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
Meanwhile, some have not restored their legal documents that were destroyed during Yolanda. Absence of land title, CLOA, or other documents that prove ownership or legal security of tenure is a challenge for Yolanda survivors because without CLOAs, farmers are deprived of the fruit of their labor and are not given shelter assistance as the government and some non-government organizations require proof of land ownership or legal security of tenure before handing out shelter assistance, he shared.
Cabonegro also lamented that urban poor affected by forced eviction and demolition were not consulted on their housing needs with no proper notice and compensation. The lack of livelihood opportunities, basic facilities and services in relocation sites also exacerbate the problem of displaced communities.
All speakers and participants agreed that there is need for enhanced coordination among national agencies and between the national and local governments to fasttrack post-disaster housing and prepare communities to prevent another tragedy like Yolanda.
Moreover, the speakers stressed the importance of engaging communities in DRR, CCA and housing planning. UN Habitat Country Manager Cris Rollo emphasized this, saying that resilience is best achieved through communities working together. It is critical that communities are consulted, he said. He also underscored the benefits of convergence among government and non-government, local and foreign players. He also added the need for long-term planning in building resilience.
Interventions should go beyond short-term humanitarian assistance but should be comprehensive and integrate the different elements of development, he said. Many children still suffer from undernutrition and poor access to education, health services, safe water and sanitation which affect their physical and cognitive development with long-term consequences on their productivity and national development.
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which the Philippines ratified inrecognizes the fundamental rights of children to survival, development, protection, and participation. Nutrition in first 1, days. Existing nutrition interventions, e. More efforts are also needed to encourage and promote exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months. Children in situations of armed conflict.
Studies have shown that displacement of whole communities and destruction of schools and homes due to war cause profound physical and psychological effects on children, ranging from fear to low self-esteem, from depression to aggressive behavior. The next administration and Congress should prioritize building a peaceful environment for children, increase protection for children from exploitation by armed groups, and provide space for meaningful participation of children in peace-building.
Disasters and emergency situations exacerbate the vulnerability of children. While the 16th Congress passed a bill providing for immediate relief of children during emergencies, children also need to be given the opportunity to participate in DRRM.
Many Filipino children are subjected to physical and psychological harm in the name of discipline. In this day and age, there is a better alternative — positive discipline — which embraces a rights-based approach to raising our children, ending violence against children, and building a safer and nurturing environment for them.
THE CHILDREN ARE THE FUTURE. Seven million Filipinas have unmet need for family planning, said Dongeto, citing data from the Department of Health. Meanwhile, according to the National Demographic and Health Survey, mothers die perlive births due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth, Dongeto added.
The Philippines has also the fastest growing HIV epidemic in the world, according to the World Health Organization. From one case per day in22 new HIV cases were reported every day in In Januarynew HIV cases were documented.
Several candidates joined the discussion and shared their respective positions and platforms on RH with the audience from different barangays in Quezon City. Ang NARS Party-list Rep. Leah Paquiz and AKBAYAN fourth nominee Rafaela David also committed to address public health issues, including RH. Meanwhile, vice-presidential candidate Rep. Leni Robredo was represented by her niece Dr. Gaile Robredo who shared about Rep.
And demanding our right to RH does not end in the elections. Rio Magpayo, PLCPD manager for local advocacy, stressed that reproductive health is a fundamental human right that the government should actively fulfil, defend and promote. The RH Law was passed in December after more than a decade in the legislative mill but only took effect in April when the Supreme Court upheld its constitutionality.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ARMM also enacted its regional RH law Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act in Decemberdays before President Aquino signed the RH Law. According to the National Demographic and Health Study, ARMM has high unmet need for family planning and low contraceptive prevalence rate. Women in the region also lack of access to skilled birth attendance and antenatal and postnatal care, the survey showed.
Advocates called on candidates to adopt a stronger and comprehensive program to address the alarming increase of HIV cases in the country. The Philippines has now the fastest growing HIV epidemic in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Dongeto, PLCPD executive director, said. Under RAyoung people aged 18 below are prohibited from accessing HIV testing and other services without written parental or guardian consent.
This discourages them to get tested. He also stressed that providing information will correct the myths and misconceptions about HIV that have caused stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV PLHIVespecially among males having sex with males MSMs. MSMs account for the most number of HIV cases in the country.
PLCPD organized the activity with the support of UNICEF Philippines and in partnership with the Quezon City Government, the Department of Health, and the Philippine National AIDS Council. The survey, conducted on February 15—20 among 1, registered voters across the country, revealed high public preference for family planning.
Dongeto lamented that despite the clear mandate of the law, some officials at the national and local level hamper the free provision of family planning services. RH Law critics outside the government also continue to challenge its implementation, recently scoring a temporary restraining order TRO from the Supreme Court halting government procurement and distribution of birth control implants.
Funding for family planning services for this year was also slashed by P1 billion during the bicameral conference for the General Appropriations Act.
Meanwhile, at the local level, anti-RH officials like Mayor Sally Lee of Sorsogon City moved to ban use of modern family planning in their localities. RH advocates fear that these moves will reverse gains in promoting responsible parenthood and improving maternal health. The country has failed to achieve its Millennium Development Goal to reduce maternal deaths. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey, there are maternal deaths perlive births — far from the target of 52 maternal deaths perlive births by Dongeto also stressed that young people should have access to family planning services, given the rising incidence of teenage pregnancy in the country.
The Philippines has the highest teenage pregnancy rate in Asia, according to the United Nations. March 23, After more than one decade in the legislative mill, the Reproductive Health and Responsible Parenthood RPRH bill was enacted into law in December However, the struggle to provide reproductive health information and free family planning services continues as anti-RH forces weaken the implementation of the law.
The same survey also shows majority of Filipinos say that the government should allocate funds for family planning and that candidates should include family planning among their priority agenda.
Emmeline Aglipay-Villar of DIWA Party-List; Gov. Nestor Fongwan; Provincial Board Members Jack Dulnuan, Jim Botiwey, and Robert Namoro; Mayor Faustino Aquisan of Kabayan; Vice Mayor Romeo Salda of La Trinidad; and La Trinidad candidates Virginia Fianza, Guiller Galwan, Mark Corton, Bobot Fongwan, Jimmy Go, Henry Kipas, Rerato Tereng, and Roderick Awingan.
He stressed the importance of highlighting RH in the upcoming elections, especially in light of the rising incidence of teenage pregnancy and HIV infections among young people nationwide. The Cordillera Administrative Region CAR has the highest rate of teenage pregnancy It is also the only region in the country where the proportion of females engaging in premarital sex is increasing, he added.
Manalang also shared that RH indicators in Benguet have improved. The contraceptive prevalence rate CPR increased to Their maternal mortality ratio has decreased and is lower than the national average. Moreover, problems in adolescent reproductive health persist in Baguio City, the highly-urbanized city of Benguet.
Baguio has more number of live births 1, among year old women in than Ifugao and Mountain Province combined in Baguio also has five times more cases of STIs, HIV and AIDS among young people years old 97 cases in than the whole region from 18 cases.
All candidates affirmed their support for the RH Law and pledged to sustain and strengthen efforts for the full and meaningful implementation of the law, especially at the grassroots level.
Congresswoman Emmeline Aglipay-Villar of DIWA Partylist shared her deeper appreciation—as a new mother—for maternal health as an important component of reproductive health. For his part, Governor Fongwan stressed the need to increase programs, manpower and funding for reproductive health programs.
He decried the P1 billion-budget cut on family planning, saying this will severely affect the poorest municipalities. He aims to mandate the full implementation of RH programs at all levels of local government and their inclusion in the annual investment plans. He also urged local leaders in Benguet to ensure that RH programs and policies are in place and strengthened.
Other local candidates explained how they have already implemented RH programs such as provision of maternal and ante-natal health services, improvements of maternal health facilities and policies which institutionalize the implementation and appropriations of RH programs. Vice Mayor Salda of La Trinidad also explained that they institutionalized it through their Gender and Development GAD budget. Moreover, most of the candidates also identified education and information dissemination as crucial responses to the growing concerns on adolescent health.
They exalted existing and proposed dissemination avenues include barangay assemblies, flag ceremonies of students and parenting seminars. Recognizing the importance role of frontline health workers, the candidates of La Trinidad also talked about an ordinance to increase the benefits of Barangay Health Workers.
This bill is already at the second reading. Meanwhile, municipal candidate Bobot Fongwan encouraged the audience to seek correct information on RH from elders like their teachers, parents or guardians instead of perpetuating wrong beliefs or myths with peers.
Age-appropriate sexuality education, said Cong. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, is not only important to decrease the incidence of teenage pregnancies but to ensure that students understand how and why they should take care of their own health and bodies. Teenage pregnancy is not a laughing matter and should be taken more seriously, said Mr. He challenged the youth to maximize their role in the upcoming elections.
Candidates will be more inclined to listen and act when the affected population actually demands for reproductive health programs and services, he concluded. Students from Ifugao State University IFSU and members of community organizations in Ifugao urged local candidates to take all necessary efforts to address worsening reproductive health RH situation among the youth in the province—increasing teenage pregnancies and HIV.
Ifugao has seen a steady improvement in all of its goals related to RH—such as decline in maternal and infant deaths and increase in skilled birth attendance and facility-based deliveries—except in one area: Inthe province reported adolescent pregnancies, the highest number recorded in Ifugao so far.
Incumbent Lamut Mayor Mariano Buyagawan emphasized the role of health boards and the importance of health stations per barangay to uphold reproductive health of the people. He also shared that strengthening the municipal health board of Lamut has been one of his major programs.
District 2 Board Member aspirant Jose Bogwana said that he believed in giving incentives to health workers to improve their services to contribute to the implementation of RH programs in the province. However, Incumbent Mayor Buyagawan emphasized the importance of capacitating health workers with the right skills and knowledge to duly do their jobs.
Education, awareness raising, empowering the youth through various community and socio-civic activities, and involving parents and communities were among the recommendations of the candidates to curb the increasing teenage pregnancies in the province.
Education is the answer to the increasing teenage pregnancy according to James Tayaban, District 1 board member aspirant, encouraging the students in the crowd to focus on education and their future.
Bogawana encouraged the youth to engage in different government led activities, and attend sports, spiritual and entrepreneurship training, and other similar activities. He also believes that the involvement of parents and communities will help in addressing reproductive health issues including teenage pregnancy.
The Purple Ribbon for RH Movement, a vast network of groups and individuals advocating for reproductive health, has endorsed Rep. Leni Robredo for vice president and former Reps. Risa Hontiveros and Walden Bello, and former justice secretary Leila de Lima for senator.
In a press conference today, former health secretary Dr. Esperanza Cabral said that these candidates have championed the RH Law and have shown their commitment to fully implement the said law. The group also called on the electorate to not vote officials who deliberately hampered the implementation of the RH Law, like Sen.
Tito Sotto and Rep. Sotto was behind the P1-billion cut on the budget for family planning services which threatens to reverse the gains in recent years on improving maternal health and promoting family planning. Lina Bacalando, president of PILAKK, an organization helping women in poor communities, dared Sotto to face women in poor communities so he would know their plight.
The group also lambasted Pacquiao for his incendiary statements against LGBTs and staunch refusal to recognize the value of RH for poor families across the country. The Purple Ribbon for RH Movement also stressed the need to remain undaunted by the relentless challenge from the anti-RH camp and vowed to use their votes as weapon to attain full victory.
Hontiveros was present during the press conference and shared her plans to help build a healthy Philippines, including building super health centers, expanding PhilHealth coverage and ensuring hospitals admit indigent patients.
Bello was represented by Ms. Princess Nemenzo, founder of WomanHealth Philippines, and Rep. Aurora Quilala, PLCPD communications and research head, said. Quilala stressed the importance of ensuring availability of and access to family planning information and services and its long-term positive impact on national development. Palawan is among the provinces with the highest maternal mortality ratio MMR in the country.
According to a report that cited the Provincial Health Office PHOPalawan recorded maternal deaths perlive births ina huge increase from the MMR in Nationally, there are maternal deaths perlive births, according to the National Demographic and Health Survey. The country failed to meet its Millennium Development Goal MDG 5 target of reducing maternal deaths to 52 perlive births by Countrywide, teenage pregnancy is on the rise.
Palawan has the highest number of HIV cases in the MIMAROPA region, according to reports. Several civil society organizations urged senatorial candidates to take all necessary efforts to address the increasing vulnerability of poor and disaster-affected Philippine communities due to climate change, in a forum in the University of the Philippines Diliman, on March 3.
In a statement, PLCPD executive director Romeo C. Dongeto, called on the candidates to champion policies and programs that promote the right of all people to adequate housing, especially amidst the growing threat of climate change. Adequate housing is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
It requires shelter safe from all forms of harm, sensitive to special needs of its inhabitants and with access to basic utilities, social services and livelihood opportunities. Government accountability Former Interior and Local Government Secretary Alunan said that it is the role of government to uplift lives and provide people their basic needs such as food, water, jobs and housing.
He underscored the importance of good governance to achieve this. Accountability and transparency through freedom of information is crucial in ensuring disaster victims are fully rehabilitated, Atty. Holistic, multisectoral approach For his part, former MMDA chair Francis Tolentino said the Yolanda disaster was confounded by different factors.
Responsibility for disaster preparedness rests on all stakeholders, he said. He stressed the importance of multisectoral participation and consultation in addressing disasters and climate change.
The interest of the people should always be considered in resettling communities, he added, building his case for on-site socialized housing with ensured access to transportation and economic opportunities, and protection of indigenous peoples against mining. Alunan also emphasized the need of a holistic approach in building climate-resilient communities.
Green technology Investment in green technology and renewable energy will also contribute in combatting climate change, said Kapunan. She proposed giving tax incentives and research grants to businesses developing and using clean energy, a point echoed by Tolentino.
Stronger local government Meanwhile, addressing vulnerability of poor communities, especially in urban centers, requires devolution of resources to areas outside Manila, said Kapunan.
Local government units should also be capacitated to respond to disasters and promote sustainable development, Tolentino said. He cited his experience as mayor of Tagaytay in addressing issues on housing and development.
Ecological security, environmental justice Furthermore, Alunan urged the protection of natural lifelines through reforestation, mangrove planting, and cleaning of rivers to provide ecological security and environment justice. Streamline agencies To achieve security from disasters, Kapunan said a separate department on climate change should be created. On the other hand, Tolentino urged the establishment of a department on disaster management and reconstruction that will synchronize disaster relief and recovery efforts in local and national levels.
A resilient and sustainable future PLCPD organized the dialogue in coordination with DRRNet Philippines, Aksyon Klima, the University of the Philippines Student Council, and various civil society and youth organizations committed in building a resilient and sustainable future.
Two years after Yolanda pounded the Visayas, thousands of families still live in danger zones, in transition homes, or in permanent relocation sites that lack basic utilities and access to schools, health services and livelihood opportunities. The growing threat of climate change also exacerbates the vulnerability of Yolanda victims and many other communities living in high-risk areas.
This calls for policy reform and decisive action from government authorities, including Congress, to address many issues in post-disaster housing, disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation. How do senatorial candidates plan to take on the challenge of building climate resilient and sustainable communities?
Find out on March 3, 9: Dongeto, PLCPD executive director. Food and nutrition security advocates challenged candidates to end hunger and malnutrition, support small farmers, achieve food sufficiency, and address the threat of climate change and natural disasters to food and nutrition. A recent Social Weather Stations survey showed that the average hunger rate at The National Nutrition Survey, however, found that one in 10 adult Filipinos suffers from chronic energy deficiency.
The same survey also showed high prevalence of undernutrition among children — The Philippine Coalition of Advocates for Nutrition Security PhilCAN attributed hunger and malnutrition in the country to various factors, including natural disasters, climate change and poor governance. Moreover, the Pambansang Kaisahan ng mga Magbubukid sa Pilipinas PKMP lamented the sorry state of agriculture in the country, contributing to high prevalence of poverty and hunger among small farmers and rural communities.
Addressing food security should be top priority of the government. After 6 years, the Aquino administration has failed to end hunger, particularly in the countryside.
It is clear that this administration favors agribusiness more than it cares for small farmers. The election is a critical opportunity for Filipinos to choose the leaders who will ensure food and security in the country. This will require a commitment to address income inequality and rural poverty by investing in rural economies to increase employment, among others.
This will also require a commitment to reform policies and governance structures on food and nutrition security, Dongeto said. For his part, Diego said that it is important that the government support small farmers.
To achieve food security and end rural poverty, the government should support small farmers by implementing agrarian reform, preventing conversion of prime agricultural lands to commercial use, influencing the farm-gate price of rice, and strengthening the mandate of the NFA to buy local produce and protect farmers from traders. Furthermore, Dyan Aimee Rodriguez, PhilCAN vice lead convener, emphasized that the solution to hunger and malnutrition lies in the collective and concerted effort of all stakeholders, including the private sector.
Nutrition interventions targeted for mothers and children during the first 1, days of life should thus be institutionalized, AAMBIS-OWA Rep.
Sharon Garin, PLCPD vice-chair, added. Drawing from her personal experience with her four-month old daughter, Rep. Aglipay-Villar encouraged breastfeeding as best practice for mothers in nourishing their infants. She shared that she insists on breastfeeding her daughter because of its benefits, even if it meant that she had to give up her medication for a sensitive health condition to avoid possible side-effects on her baby.
She noted that breastfeeding lowers the risk of child mortality and added that breastfed children have higher IQ than children fed with bottle or formula milk and have higher productivity as adults. Aglipay-Villar also emphasized the need to enable working mothers to breastfeed their babies. She welcomed the Senate approval on third reading of the Extended Maternity Leave bill that allow day-paid maternity leave for employees in both government and private sectors.
She also stressed the importance of milk banks to address the demand from mothers who cannot breastfeed due to health conditions. For her part, AAMBIS-OWA Rep. Garin, author of House Bill or the First 1, Days Program, said. She urged the advocates to continue to work together to forward the nutrition agenda this to sustain the momentum gained last year.
Nenita Dalde, PLCPD manager for national advocacy, echoed this call. The PLCPD forum also gathered government officials and advocates from civil society to discuss policy gaps and come up with policy recommendations to promote maternal and child nutrition in the country.
Among the recommendations agreed upon by the participants are: In a press briefing today, Romeo C.