By: Sabrina Sarmiento and Joanna Calimag
Published: July 20, 2023
In the realm of education, one critical subject has long been relegated in the shadows, whispered about in hushed tones, and shoved under the rug of societal discomfort. It is a disheartening reality that, despite the progress we have made in so many areas, the educational system in the Philippines still fails our young minds when it comes to providing accurate, inclusive, and age-appropriate information about human sexuality. We deny young people the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate their sexuality healthily and responsibly.
From personal experience, instead of fostering an environment of open dialogue and understanding, the topic of sex is often met with nervous laughter, awkward glances, and a collective sense of immaturity. In science class, students often resorted to juvenile giggles when confronted with the male and female reproductive systems. Even the mere use of the word "sex" is frowned upon, and students are forbidden from using it within the walls of the institution. These laughs and thoughts were not borne out of malicious intent but rather from a lack of maturity and proper guidance.
Catholic schools unintentionally hinder students' access to crucial information that could significantly impact their lives by omitting or limiting discussions about sexual health. It is important to note that advocating for comprehensive sex education in Catholic schools does not necessarily mean advocating against the religious beliefs and values they hold. Instead, it is about finding a balance that appreciates both values while providing accurate and age-appropriate knowledge that entrusts students to make educated choices.
Teachers and administrators may hold personal beliefs that align with conservative ideologies, which view discussions about sexuality as taboo or immoral. These beliefs can lead to a reluctance to address the topic openly and honestly in the classroom. Additionally, societal pressures and cultural norms often heavily emphasize abstinence and chastity, reinforcing the notion that comprehensive sex education is unnecessary or inappropriate.
Comprehensive sex education is not just about the mechanics of reproduction; it goes far beyond that. It is an essential tool that provides students with a thorough understanding of sexuality, consent, boundaries, healthy relationships, and responsible decision-making. It is an approach that recognizes the holistic nature of human sexuality and aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their own lives and relationships.
The absence of comprehensive sex education leaves our youth vulnerable to misinformation. Without access to accurate and age-appropriate information, they turn to unreliable sources such as the internet or peers, often perpetuating myths and misconceptions about sex, relationships, and reproductive health. This misinformation can have dire consequences, leading to risky behaviors, unintended pregnancies, and the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
According to statistics from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the teenage pregnancy rate remains alarmingly high. In 2020 alone, approximately 62,510 live births were recorded to adolescent mothers aged 10 to 19 years old. This translates to an average of 171 births per day, highlighting the situation's urgency. The link between poverty and teenage pregnancy is glaringly evident. A study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) revealed that young women from low-income households are more likely to experience early pregnancies than their more affluent counterparts. The lack of access to quality education, limited economic opportunities, and the absence of comprehensive sex education exacerbate the vulnerability of young girls.
The consequences of early pregnancy are far-reaching and devastating. Teenage parents often face disruptions in their education, with many forced to drop out due to the challenges of balancing parenthood and academic pursuits. This perpetuates the cycle of poverty, limiting their chances of securing stable employment and entrapping them in a cycle of economic disadvantage.
In order to fully tackle the abysmal state of sex education in Catholic schools, bold policy changes must be advocated for. It is high time to shake the foundations of archaic beliefs and prioritize the well-being and education of our young minds. We need to engage in open and genuine dialogues between religious institutions and education stakeholders, aiming to develop exhaustive sex education curriculum approaches that strike a delicate balance between respecting religious values and meeting the essential educational needs of our students.
In a society where discussions around consent are often brushed aside or considered unnecessary, we must address this issue head-on in our classrooms. Ignorance about support eternalizes a culture where boundaries are blurred, one's autonomy is disregarded, and power imbalances thrive. This unhealthy environment is fertile ground for normalizing harassment and assault, creating a generation that fails to recognize the importance of respect and consent.
Our moral obligation is to ensure that every student receives comprehensive sex education that equips them with the knowledge, understanding, and skills crucial to make educated decisions about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health. We must break free from the shackles of ignorance, shame, and cultural taboos that have hindered progress for far too long.
We must empower the youth to reshape our nation's future. We can construct a society that values consent, respects boundaries, and prioritizes the well-being of every individual. Let us not shy away from the discomfort; let us face it head-on and cultivate a generation that embraces sexuality as a natural and positive aspect of human life. Through advocating for policy reforms, educational initiatives, and open discussions, we can dismantle the barriers preventing comprehensive sex education from reaching every classroom in the Philippines.
No more excuses, no more silence. It is time to rise and advocate for comprehensive sex education in the Philippines. Our youth deserve better, and it is our collective responsibility to supply them with the education they need to navigate their lives with confidence, knowledge, and respect. Let us be the catalysts for change, working together to create a brighter, more informed, and empowered future for generations to come.