Clarifying Fake News on Comprehensive Sexuality Education

The UP Law Center Institute of Human Rights (UP IHR) hosted an online forum titled “Forum on Clarifying Fake News on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)” on 17 February 2025. The event, attended by over 300 participants including policymakers, educators, legal professionals, and advocates, aimed to counter unfounded claims against CSE and highlight its role in curbing the teenage pregnancy crisis in the Philippines.

UP College of Law Dean Darlene Marie B. Berberabe emphasized that adolescent pregnancy can perpetuate poverty and social exclusion, making CSE essential. UP IHR Director Professor Elizabeth H. Aguiling-Pangalangan discussed the Philippine legal framework provided by the Constitution, statute, and international laws that support CSE and bely claims that CSE violates existing laws. She stressed the need for vigilance in recognizing false and misleading claims intended to evoke fear and cause harm. Dr. Maria Midea M. Kabamalan of the UP Population Institute highlighted critical gaps in adolescent reproductive health, with only 15.7% of 15-19-year-olds having comprehensive HIV/AIDS awareness and 44% lacking sex education, according to government data. She urged stronger sexuality education to empower young individuals with informed decision-making.

Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” N. Hontiveros, author of the Senate Bill No. 1979 or the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, addressed disinformation hindering the bill’s passage, underscoring the importance of comprehensive measures. UP IHR Head Legal Officer Atty. Raymond Marvic C. Baguilat meticulously identified myths on CSE. He provided data to debunk these falsehoods and clarified that the contents of CSE are age-appropriate, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the Philippine context. Atty. Daniel D. Lising, M.D., head of the UP IHR’s Right to Health Program, explained CSE’s alignment with UN standards and its foundation in human rights.

Medical experts on pediatrics, adolescent health and obstetrics represented by Dr. Naomi Sotto-Nocheseda, Dr. Marites Miguel-Butaran, and Dr. Emma A. Llanto, discussed the health risks of teenage pregnancy, barriers to healthcare access, and the stigma young mothers face by presenting evidence-based studies and data. They advocated for better support services to mitigate its negative effects. The forum concluded with testimonies from adolescent mothers Ms. Micaella Sungahid and Ms. Claire Sarte, who shared their struggles and called for CSE in schools to equip young women with knowledge for informed decision-making on their health.

UP IHR Law Reform Specialist Atty. Glenda T. Litong led the open forum while University Researcher Atty. James Gregory A. Villasis and Research Assistant Janessa Mari T. Kudera facilitated the webinar. The online forum was a part of the Right to Health and Children’s Rights Programs of the UP IHR.