Opposing camps pleased with RH ruling

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court's ruling on the constitutionality of the Reproductive Health Act on Tuesday was found favorable in various degrees by opposing sides in the decades-long debate.

The Purple Ribbon led by proponents of the measure in Congress thanked the high court for upholding the law albeit striking down some of its important provisions.

"This day is made more meaningful by the Supreme Court by giving justice to years of struggle for the law and recognizing the contribution of everyone who fought hard to have this law," the group said in a statement.

The United Nations congratulated the Philippine government for affirming sexual and reproductive health in a bid to address poverty.

"The Supreme Court ruling ... comes at a crucial time. The full and speedy implementation of the law will be critically important in reducing maternal mortality and ensuring universal access to reproductive health care," the international organization stated.

The anti-RH camp, meanwhile, also displayed optimism with the SC decision, which was perceived to have neutralized divisive provisions.

Lawyer James Imbong, who lodged the first petition contesting the legality of the RH Law before the high tribunal, said that the penalty clauses rejected by the court makes a much weaker measure.

"Ang alam natin ang lakas ng batas ay nasa penalty clause so kung 'yan ang dineclare na unconstitutional ... wala nang ngipin 'yang batas na 'yan," Imbong said in an interview over dzMM.

Also read: SC waters down RH Law

The anti-RH Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, meanwhile, encouraged the faithful to maintain esteem for the Supreme Court and uphold the "sacredness" of life and dignity.

"Although the Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the RH law, it has truly watered down the RH law and consequently upheld the importance of adhering to an informed religious conscience even among government workers," Bishop Socrates Villegas said.