EDITORIAL - Now implement it

With the Supreme Court throwing out motions for reconsideration of its ruling on the Reproductive Health Law, there should be no more impediment to the full implementation of the measure. The RH bill was debated to death for a decade before it was finally signed into law by a President who does not owe his political survival to religious support.

The SC ruling upholding the RH Law disappointed both sides as the tribunal invalidated some of the provisions. But the ruling overall was still a green light from the nation’s court of last resort, and the invalidated provisions can be regarded as a compromise that would soften resistance to RH programs.

With the SC throwing out motions for reconsideration of its decision, the government should now focus on its effective implementation. The principal beneficiaries of the measure are women who lack knowledge about reproductive health. This is for women who want access to programs that would allow them to space childbirths and plan the size of their families.

Such information and access are available to women with the financial means and education to enjoy reproductive health care. These women can make informed choices about their own bodies and the size of their families; they do not need an RH Law. The measure is for the millions of women living below the poverty line who depend on the government for health care services.

Implementing the measure does not stop anyone from heeding religious teachings against contraception. Allowing people to exercise their free will is one of the bedrocks of the Christian faith. Free will is best exercised, however, with all the information available for making one’s choice.

The RH Law aims to give all Filipino women, regardless of income and educational attainment, the freedom to make informed choices, and to enjoy reproductive health. With the SC tossing out the motions for reconsideration, it should be full speed ahead for the implementation of the RH Law.