Statement by UNFPA Philippines OIC, Jose Roi Avena on the Strong Public Support for Comprehensive Sexuality Education in the Philippines

UNFPA welcomes the strong public support for age-appropriate sexuality education in the Philippines. The recent data from the Pulse Asia survey is a clear sign that across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and religious affiliations, Filipinos agree that providing young people with accurate and scientific information about their bodies, relationships, and health is essential. This sends a powerful message that Filipinos remain committed to the well-being and future of young people and that equipping them with the right knowledge is not a divisive issue but a shared value.  

UNFPA emphasizes the need for strong safeguards in implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education in schools, including effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure quality and age-appropriateness, continuous engagement with parent groups, sustained investment in teacher training, and meaningful youth participation. By actively involving young people, Comprehensive Sexuality Education becomes more responsive to their realities and strengthens their ability to make informed and empowered life-changing decisions.

Comprehensive Sexuality Education is critical in preventing unintended pregnancies, reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and combating gender-based violence. It fosters a culture of respect, consent, and equality. 

When young people have a clear understanding of their bodies and rights, they are better able to protect themselves and respect others. UNFPA remains committed to working with the Department of Education in engaging all stakeholders - parents, teachers, governments, civil society, faith-based organizations, and young people themselves - to ensure that these fundamental rights are realized.

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