Zubiri opposes SB 1979, citing youth sex ed concerns

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri has expressed strong opposition to Senate Bill No. 1979, warning that teaching sexual education to young children could encourage experimentation with sex.

Zubiri argued during a virtual press conference that educating six- and seven-year-olds about sexual activities and contraception is inappropriate and potentially harmful, citing studies showing youth in the Philippines start experimenting with sex at ages 16-18.

He emphasized his conservative stance, stating he will stand firm against the bill as long as he remains a senator, despite supporting healthcare access for teenage mothers.

Zubiri highlighted concerns about sections of the bill that allegedly promote teaching 'bodily pleasure' to children aged six to nine and sexual orientation education up to age 14, arguing these could lead to an increase in adolescent pregnancies.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, the bill's author, dismissed misinformation and clarified that the measure does not encourage such teachings, emphasizing its aim to protect children’s well-being.

Critics of the bill have launched an online petition claiming it threatens societal, moral, and spiritual foundations, while former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno questioned the alignment of the CSE with international standards.