AS THE controversy over sex education and condom distribution programs for teenagers in schools continues, a health program service provider thought to have both of the programs to address sexual diseases and teenage pregnancy.
Davao Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC) head physician Dr. Jordana Ramiterre said choosing whether to have sex education or condom distribution program among teenagers in schools should not be a problem as both could provide services.
"As program service provider, alam namin that there is an increase in the numbers of teenagers getting pregnant and those positive for HIV-Aids (Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)," Ramiterre said.
Ramiterre said that among the reasons for teenage pregnancy and acquiring HIV-Aids is the lack of knowledge with regard to the accessibility of information and services, hence, resorting to risky means as they do not have the capacity to protect themselves.
The availability of condoms does not increase sexual activity, Ramiterre said, adding that in fact, this can help decrease unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV-Aids among the young generations and others.
"Although what we really wanted is responsible parenthood, but we cannot ignore the fact that young people these days, though not all, engaged into sexual activity. Ayaw man natin i-promote ang condom but this can help," she said.
The physician also underlined that sex education is still foremost on the important things to do like sexual abstinence, moral character and delaying sexual debut. She added that teenagers should be taught about what sexual responsibility is.
"I believe the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education (DepEd), on distribution of condoms, ay pag-aaralan nila itong mabuti. I am sure naman hindi kung sinu-sino lang bibigyan ng condoms," she said.
Ramiterre said sexual responsibility now usually means using the condom as a form of birth control and/or to prevent pregnancy and the spread of any sexually transmitted diseases like HIV-Aids.
