South Korea, UN fund program to reduce Philippines adolescent pregnancy

MANILA, Philippines — The South Korean government has provided funding for a joint program with several United Nations agencies to reduce cases of adolescent pregnancy in the Philippines and ensure that girls are able to stay in school and achieve their full potential.

On the celebration of International Youth Day on Aug. 12, the UN agencies in the Philippines and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) highlighted the important role young people play in society, especially in ushering change.

South Korea, through KOICA, is funding the joint program implemented by the United Nations Population Fund, United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organization to reduce cases of adolescent pregnancies in the country and ensure that girls are able to finish their studies.

The partners are working closely with the Departments of Health and of Education, the governors of Samar and Southern Leyte provinces and other government agencies in rolling out adolescent-friendly mobile health facilities, building the capacity of community adolescent health service providers, accelerating the integration of comprehensive sexuality education in schools, implementing Youth Leadership and Governance Initiatives and conducting research on adolescent pregnancy and child, early and forced marriage.

With nearly 50 percent of the population being under the age of 24, the Philippines recognizes that supporting and empowering its youth is the key to achieving national development goals.

KOICA is strategically focusing its support in the field of maternal and child health and, in collaboration with four UN agencies and the Philippine government, has been providing $6.4 million in funding for Accelerating the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy since 2022.

KOICA Country Director Kim Eunsub said this year’s theme is a great reminder to encourage multi-sectoral convergence to strengthen climate resilience and equip the youth with green skills.

“Through this 4-year joint project, I am hopeful that it can create a huge impact on achieving a better future for Filipino youth who are able to make better choices on their own sexual and reproductive health,” Kim said.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, World Bank data showed the Philippines has the second highest adolescent fertility rate in the ASEAN region. Latest data showed there are around 14 million single mothers in the Philippines and that they face economic and social challenges as adolescent pregnancy can result in dropping out of school.