15 January 2025 – We stand at a critical time in our commitment to the health and well-being of our youth. The Department of Education recognizes our role to shape life skills, values, and behaviors. Nakatuon kami sa datos sa likod ng bawat polisiya. Kabilang na dito ang pinagdadaanan ng ating kabataan kagaya ng teenage pregnancy, HIV, at gender-based violence. Sinisiguro ng Kagawaran na ang aming mga hakbang ay tumutugon sa pangangailangan ng ating mga mag-aaral, lalo na kung paano sila makitungo sa kanilang sarili at sa isa’t isa.

These efforts require a multi-sectoral approach. As Chair of the Youth Committee in the Senate, we took proactive steps to address the alarming rise in teenage pregnancy. We filed a resolution aimed at adopting a whole-of-government approach to develop a comprehensive policy framework. This framework seeks to prevent early childbearing and mitigate its negative consequences, such as school dropouts, and ensure the welfare and future of our youth.

We acknowledge the concerns regarding the current implementation of our Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) and a version of SBN 1979, the Teenage Pregnancy Bill. I would like to clarify that I have not filed any version of this. I was included as a co-author because, at the time the committee report was filed, I was the Chair of the Finance Committee, and the bill includes a section on appropriation.

Nakikinig kami—noon bilang Senador at hanggang ngayon bilang inyong Kalihim. Bukas ang pintuan ng DepEd para sa inyong pahayag at mungkahi, lalo na kung may tiyak na detalye. As an implementing agency, we follow legislative developments that might impact our policies. Sinisiguro natin na balanse ang ating pananaw at pagpapatupad. We are actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including health service providers and community organizations, to ensure that our programs are effective and culturally sensitive. Our efforts include exploring models from our communities and other countries.

Ano man ang aming tahak, naniniwala kami sa aktibong pakikilahok ng mga magulang sa pagkatuto ng ating mga mag-aaral. Together, we can create an environment that fosters understanding, respect, and our youth’s well-being. We invite all parties to work alongside us as we navigate this important journey.

Maraming salamat.

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