Teenage pregnancy is a global issue affecting adolescents aged 10-19. Most cases occur in developing countries where access to education is limited (World Health Organization: WHO, 2024). The Philippines is among the leading countries in Asia with high adolescent birth rates. Between 2021 and 2022, there has been a 35% increase in the incidence of adolescent pregnancy in the country (Save the Children, 2024). Findings from the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA) showed an increase in the number of live births from pregnancies among girls aged 14 and below, from 2,320 in 2021 to 3,135 in 2022 (GMA Integrated News, 2024). The surge in the case of teenage pregnancy in the Philippines has been attributed to various reasons, including exposure to social media and pornography, cultural norms, peer pressure, and poverty (Manzanilla et al., 2024). Young mothers are also more likely to suffer from complications during pregnancy, risking both their lives and their babies (Chakole et al., 2022). Nevertheless, the magnitude of teenage pregnancy goes beyond statistics, revealing the harsh realities many young parents, especially women, are experiencing. Its prevalence also reflects the broader crises of the lack of sexual education and the weak institutions that fail to provide adequate guidance, protection, and support for adolescents. These gaps contribute to the perpetuation of teenage pregnancy, robbing young individuals of their childhood, disrupting their education, and limiting their life opportunities. As a result, the issue compels a necessity for proper sex education and a call to legislators to enact laws that would prevent teenage pregnancy and protect young parents. 

In response to this, Senator Risa Hontiveros authored the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy Act of 2023, also known as S.B. No. 1979, initiating the foundations for preventing and addressing teenage pregnancy. The bill aims to reduce adolescent pregnancies in the Philippines by providing comprehensive sexual education and ensuring access to reproductive health services. It also aims to protect young parents from discrimination and create support systems through government and community programs. (Senate of the Philippines, 2023). Currently, the bill is pending second reading, but, Should it be passed into law, not only will the cases of teenage pregnancy curtail, but it will also safeguard the rights of young parents—who, as children themselves, are entitled to protection, support, and equal opportunities. It recognizes their vulnerability as both minors and parents, ensuring that they are not subjected to discrimination but instead empowered to exercise their rights and contribute to the development of the country.

The Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) presents a timely and relevant response to the ongoing problem of teenage pregnancy and the increasing number of population with sexually transmitted diseases. Supporting this kind of legislative action emphasizes the importance of comprehensive education and access to reproductive health services and lead the nation toward a more informed and empowered youth population. Mandating a bill like this will not only reduce the pregnancy rates among teenagers but also empower youngsters with adequate knowledge and agency over their own body and well-being. Moreover, societal issues like teenage pregnancy is not just a public-health concern but a socio-economic issue, and actions like CSE will help a country move toward inclusive development.