RH law: The challenge ahead

MANILA, Philippines – Rappler talks to Reproductive Health Law advocates Rep. Edcel Lagman and Dr. Sylvia Claudio on the constitutionality of the controversial measure.

After more than a decade languishing in Congress, Republic Act No. 10354 or the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law was signed into law in 2012. But four months later, the Supreme Court issued a status quo ante order stopping its implementation following 14 petitions against it. On Tuesday, April 8, advocates score a victory after the Supreme Court upheld the law, but struck down 8 provisions of the measure. (WATCH: SC: Reproductive Health law constitutional)

Advocates are in high spirits, believing that with the ruling, steps to further improve the law may be made.
A survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) on public support for the RH Law revealed that 77% agree that the RH Law follows what “the Constitution should stand for, so it is only proper for the Supreme Court to allow it.” The same survey showed 84% agree that “the government should provide free supply or service to the poor who wish to use any family planning method.” (READ: SWS: 7 out of 10 Filipinos believe RH law is constitutional)

But the Catholic Church remains strongly opposed against the law. Church leaders said they remain committed to uphold the inviolability and dignity of a human person by opposing what they consider an anti-life measure.

Edcel Lagman is a lawyer and former Albay representative. He is the principal author of the RH law.

Dr. Sylvia Claudio is the director of Center for Women Studies in the University of the Philippines. Claudio, an academician, earlier challenged anti-RH lawmakers and advocates to a debate on the measure. Claudio is also a regular contributor to Rappler’s Thought Leaders section covering topics such as politics and gender. (READ: RH law: Victory over religious bigotry)

They will discuss the challenges in implementing the law, and the impact of the provisions the Supreme Court struck down. – Rappler.com.