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Filipinos will be given free condoms to reduce population growth rate
Last reviewed: 30.06.2025
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The Philippine government is considering introducing sex education in schools and providing citizens with free condoms. The corresponding bill was introduced to Congress yesterday by the country's President Benigno Aquino. The measure is aimed at curbing population growth, reducing the spread of HIV infection and solving the problem of illegal abortions, The Independent reports.
Supporters of the initiative note that the number of Filipinos has doubled in the past 30 years, now reaching 94 million, many of whom live below the poverty line. The rate of HIV transmission in the Philippines is lower than in other Asian countries, but doctors say tougher measures are needed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Despite the fact that abortions are illegal in the country, 560,000 Filipinas undergo them every year, forcing them to resort to the help of underground organizations. At the same time, 90,000 operations lead to complications, and one thousand women die on the operating table every year, according to data from the Center for Reproductive Rights in New York.
In turn, Catholic bishops have spoken out against the initiatives of the Philippine authorities. They are sure that condoms create a false sense of security in people and encourage promiscuity. The priests have already threatened to excommunicate the head of state from the church. This could have serious consequences for him, since Catholic structures have a huge influence in the Philippines.
About 80% of the population is Catholic and follows the Church's views on both moral and political issues. Two predecessors of the current Philippine president were forced to give up their posts under the pressure of popular uprisings supported by religious leaders.
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