Today the Defend CSE network united in a powerful demonstration in Mendiola and Cebu of solidarity, sending a clear and resolute message to legislators: support Senate Bill 1979 and accelerate the nationwide implementation of CSE. This critical piece of legislation aims to fortify adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) initiatives that are under threat by misinformation campaigns.
“We believe that CSE is not a threat, but a right,” said
Judy Ann Miranda, a leading figure in Defend CSE and secretary general of the
labor group Partido Manggagawa. She added that “This is not just about passing
laws, it’s about ensuring every young person has the right to accurate,
responsible, and empowering education.”
Defend CSE, a broad network of civil society organizations
(CSOs), advocates, and stakeholders in child rights, youth development, women’s
rights, health, and education, stands united in its unwavering commitment to
defend Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in the Philippines.
“We must continue to safeguard the work of educators,
policymakers, and those championing CSE in the Department of Education,” stated
Miranda. She pointed out that “Fear-mongering and misinformation must not be
allowed to erase the progress we’ve made in advancing sexual and reproductive
health and rights for young people.”
In celebration of Valentine’s month, Defend CSE expresses
its heartfelt gratitude to the countless advocates, legislators, families,
educators, and other stakeholders who have stood strong in the fight to protect
young people’s rights to accurate and empowering education. Despite the
continued efforts of opposition groups to undermine CSE through fear-mongering
and disinformation, Defend CSE reaffirms that these divisive tactics have no
place in a dialogue built on love and care for the well-being of children and
youth.
CSE is a vital tool for protecting young people from real
risks such as gender-based violence, exploitation, unintended pregnancies, and
sexually transmitted infections. It empowers youth with the knowledge, skills,
and support needed to make informed decisions about their bodies,
relationships, and future. By equipping young people with comprehensive,
developmentally-appropriate, and culturally-sensitive education, CSE ensures
they can build safe, healthy, and respectful lives.
The Defend CSE movement calls for continued advocacy and
action to protect CSE against all forms of distortion and opposition. As they
rally for the passage and effective implementation of Senate Bill 1979, they
pledge to fight for the rights of young people and ensure CSE remains a key
element of the country’s education system.
Defend CSE remains committed to working alongside
policymakers to ensure that sexual and reproductive health education continues
to be a pillar of youth empowerment, human rights, and public health in the
Philippines.
Photos of the Mendiola and Cebu rallies today can be
accessed at FB: Partido Manggagawa
---
About Defend CSE
Defend CSE is a collective network of civil society
organizations, advocates, and stakeholders dedicated to defending the rights of
young people to access comprehensive sexuality education (CSE). The movement is
committed to advocating for youth empowerment, sexual and reproductive health,
and education policies that prioritize the well-being of future generations.
Press Release
February 5, 2025
Defend CSE
