Hontiveros files substitute bill on adolescent pregnancy prevention

Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a substitute bill to Senate Bill 1979, the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, following concerns raised by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and some groups.

Malacañang welcomed the substitute measure, with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stating that they always welcome initiatives like these.

At least seven senators withdrew their support for the original bill, prompting Hontiveros to file the substitute measure.

The substitute bill removes the provision on Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) "guided by international standards" after a backlash from critics, including President Marcos Jr.

Hontiveros stated that the filing of a substitute bill will limit mandatory CSE to adolescents aged 10 years old and above, and include provisions guaranteeing academic and religious freedom.

President Marcos Jr. had previously stated he would veto the original measure, expressing concerns about its CSE component potentially teaching young children about sexual acts and rights, although Malacañang confirmed the objection was specifically to the 'international standards' provision.

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