Why sex education workers target basketball courts in the Philippines

About this video

• Video Title: Why sex education workers target basketball courts in the Philippines
• Channel: CNN
• Speakers: Hanako Montgomery
• Duration: 00:07:06

Overview

This video discusses the rising issue of teen pregnancy in the Philippines, highlighting the challenges faced by young girls and the efforts of sex education advocates to provide resources and information. It touches on the cultural and political barriers, particularly the influence of the Catholic Church, that hinder comprehensive sex education in schools.

Key takeaways

• Teen Pregnancy Crisis: The Philippines is experiencing a significant rise in adolescent pregnancies, described as a "national emergency," with a 38% spike in births among 10-14 year olds between 2019 and 2023.
• Health Risks: Pregnancy for girls under 16 is three times riskier than for older women, posing serious health risks, including death, due to underdeveloped reproductive systems and lack of mental readiness.
• Barriers to Sex Education: Efforts to implement standardized sex education in schools have been stalled due to opposition from the Catholic Church and conservative groups, who argue against discussing reproductive organs in classrooms and prioritize parental control and religious freedom.
• Community Outreach: Sex education advocates, like the volunteer group Likhaan, are reaching out to communities by distributing contraceptives and information, targeting places like basketball courts where young men gather.
• Shifting Legal Landscape: The age of consent in the Philippines was raised from 12 to 16 in 2022, meaning adolescent pregnancy can now constitute statutory rape.