Agnes to appeal vs distribution of condoms

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale plans to appeal to the Department of Health to defer the distribution of condoms in schools.

Magpale said she's worried about the DOH's plan to distribute condoms in schools as means to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS among the youth.

"I hope nga dili na madayun," Magpale said.

"Imo sila (young people) tagaan og freedom nga ing ana? Musamot ilang curiosity anang butanga, then you'll giving them the freedom," she added.

Magpale said she believes that sex education should start early considering that this is another era, but she stressed that sex education does not mean that the youngsters should be armed with contraceptives and condoms.

"The children could be taught sex education even in their early age, but not be given condoms," Magpale stated.

She said she believes that values should be considered first, among others. “Ang gihuna-huna man gud sa DOH kay ang HIV di ba? But without looking at the psychological effect and moral values of these children?” Magpale added.

The vice governor is calling for parents and teachers to guide their children and students. She said their guidance is what the children needs the most. “Bisan man gani sa college, we shouldn't encourage premarital sex,” said Magpale.

Magpale said she's planning to appeal to the DOH regarding the matter.

 "If I may, yes. As the co-chairman of the Provincial Commission for the Welfare of Children (PCWC) maybe we should put in a resolution appealing to DOH. We should exhaust other means rather than giving out condoms," Magpale said.

PCWC executive officer Heda Largo also expressed disapproval over the giving out of condoms.

"We will have that agenda in our meeting later on and we will appeal for resolution to the DOH. We shouldn't encourage students or children to engage in premarital sex," Largo said. (FREEMAN)