16 January 2017
PRESS STATEMENT
CHR welcomes EO 12 on Zero Unmet Need and
Strict Implementation of RPRH Law
The Commission on Human Rights, as Gender and Development Ombud, welcomes and commends the Office of the President for the issuance of Executive Order No. 12 “Attaining and Sustaining Zero Unmet Need for Modern Family Planning through the Strict Implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law, Providing Funds Therefor and for other Purposes.”
The issuance sends a clear signal that this administration supports the full implementation of the RPRH law and shall not tolerate acts and practices which may deny women access to a full range of responsible parenthood and reproductive health care services, including family planning methods, supplies, and commodities. This is a much needed commitment towards the implementation of the RPRH law and a fulfilment of the President’s promise during his State of the Nation.
Ever since the RPRH law was passed, it has encountered various and continuing challenges. While overcoming the constitutional challenge in 2014, the law’s implementation has been uneven and marked by continued judicial challenges. The Commission’s National Inquiry on RH conducted last 2016 showed the uneven support for and implementation of the law, the existence of legal and policy barriers to its implementation, and the continuing barriers faced by service providers and women in the marginalized sector. In Sorsogon City, for instance, the Mayor issued EO 03 declaring the City a Pro-Life City resulting in the ban and pull out of modern artificial contraceptives in City Health centers and facilities.
With this exercise of political will from the Chief Executive, the Commission looks forward to the repeal and amendment of discriminatory policies and practices limiting and denying women’s access to RH services and information. The Commission looks forward to changes in the situation of women in Sorsogon City, and for more sustained commitment and support of government service providers and local government units to the implementation of the RPRH law.
Contact Person:
Atty. Jacqueline Ann C. de Guia
OIC, Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Office
Telephone No: (02) 528-5792 / 09175919833
Email address: comms.chr@gmail.com