Child Advocates Push for Comprehensive Sexuality Education

Child advocates across the Philippines are calling for a unified effort to protect children and youth through comprehensive sexuality education (CSE).

While debates continue, young voices highlight the transformative impact of CSE in shaping their future.

“If you actually listen to children, we are all fighting for the same thing: a future where every child feels safe, respected, and empowered,” said Amihan Abueva, Regional Executive Director of Child Rights Coalition Asia.

Child advocates from various communities under the Down to Zero Philippine Alliance gathered in Cebu in July 2024 to discuss raising awareness about Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and preventing Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (SEC).

“Children themselves believe that if they understand their rights and responsibilities, they can protect themselves from harm and have better futures. So, let’s not pretend to listen but really listen to what they have to say,” said Abueva.

“Mas mapapababa po yung case ng teenage pregnancy at mga na-aabuse,” said Eloi, 14, emphasizing a key benefit of CSE.

Shane, 15, added, “Kung may knowledge ang mga children… they will know what’s the right thing to do at ano ang hindi gagawin.”

This education extends beyond the classroom, fostering a culture of respect, consent, and accountability among peers.

Child advocates highlight the lack of access to accurate information.

“As youth, we are using social media a lot to get information, including TikTok. Pero tama ba lahat iyon? Who will give us the right information?” Shane asked.

Another advocate pointed out the role of schools in addressing these gaps.

“In our school, teenage pregnancy prevention is not mentioned at all. The topic should be given a dedicated time instead of being randomly planted in different subjects.”

The Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, currently under deliberation, aims to institutionalize CSE in schools nationwide.

“Hindi ba nila naiisip na if children are educated about sex at home and in school, we will delay sexual activity because we already know the consequences of early pregnancy?” asked Shantel, 17.

Children emphasize the role of parents and caregivers in SRHR and SEC education.

“Supporting children to prevent teenage pregnancy starts at home,” Shantel said.

Studies show that sex education is most effective when school-based programs involve parents and caregivers.

“I want to be able to ask my parents questions about my body and feel safe,” said another child advocate.

“Children believe that it’s important that young people are supported by their families in making informed decisions. That’s why parents and caregivers must be trained to teach and handle conversations about sex and about their rights because it is essential to fostering a society where children can thrive without fear or misinformation,” said Abueva.

Advocates stress that discussions on sex and sexuality are not inappropriate.

“Ang pagtanong tungkol sa sex at sekwalidad ay hindi bastos. Huwag dapat mahihiyang magtanong o pag-usapan ito,” children assert.

Marsel, 17, envisions a future where education empowers all generations.

“Hindi lang ang mga batang kaedad natin kundi pati ang next generation at pati rin ang ibang parents will be empowered and instilled with knowledge.”

By prioritizing CSE, advocates hope to create a ripple effect benefiting today’s youth and future generations.

Schools, families, policymakers, and civil society are called to unite in supporting the bill and integrating CSE into the education system.

Comprehensive Sexuality Education is not just about academics—it is about building a safer, more inclusive society.

Ultimately, we are all fighting for the same thing: a future where every child is safe, protected, and empowered to achieve their full potential.