Hontiveros files revised Adolescent Pregnancy Act amid Marcos' veto threat

Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a revised version of Senate Bill No. 1979, known as the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy Act of 2023, in response to criticisms and misinterpretations from opponents.

The amendments include removing provisions that are internationally guided and clarifying references to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), addressing concerns raised by President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr., who vowed to veto the original bill citing "ridiculous and abhorrent" provisions.

Malacañang welcomed the revised measure, with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin saying it indicates Hontiveros realized there were issues with her earlier version while also noting that President Marcos has yet to read the substitute bill before giving his reactions.

Hontiveros emphasized her commitment to addressing adolescent pregnancies while ensuring the bill adheres to Filipino culture and values, hoping for urgent legislative action from Senate President Francis Escudero.

The revised bill includes changes such as limiting CSE to children 10 years old and above, guaranteeing academic and religious freedom, and consulting parent-teacher organizations in its implementation.