MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court’s action on the Reproductive Health law is “urgently needed,” so that the government can finally act on the issue of women’s – particularly maternal – health, Senate President Franklin Drilon said.
“More than 14 months since the historic passage of the reproductive health law, the government’s hands are still tied when it comes to attending fully to the needs for maternal care of millions of mothers,” Drilon said in a statement Sunday, February 16.
The law, passed back in December 2012, is currently in limbo after a status quo ante order was issued against it by the Supreme Court, as its constitutionality was questioned by anti-RH groups.
Drilon said a ruling is “vital” for the government to be able to address women’s health, particularly maternal deaths – a commitment of the Philippines under the UN Millennium Development Goals.
“Whatever the verdict of the Supreme Court, only then will be the government freed to either continue with the RH law, or proceed to formulate another national policy on this issue,” he was quoted as saying.
Drilon also reiterated his support for the law, which is facing a total of 15 petitions questioning its constitutionality, mostly by Catholic groups. Justices ended oral arguments for the RH law in August 2013.
He echoed House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr’s call for the SC to uphold its constitutionality.
“The fact that the RH bill underwent more than thirteen years’ worth of debates, studies and consultations before it was approved is an undeniable proof that its passage went through an arduous and highly-publicized process,” he said. – Rappler.com
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