BAGUIO CITY– In a bid to move forward the reproductive health program of the government , provincial officials passed an ordinance entitled “Benguet Province Responsible Parenting and Reproductive Health Code”.
The ordinance which aims to bridge the gap in the implementation of the RH Law was formally signed last week.
Committee on Health chair Board Member Jim Botiwey said the ordinance is in response to the RH program of the government. It reinforces the previous efforts of the provincial government.
Among the provisions of the ordinance are policies and implementation of RH programs such as maternal, neonatal, child health and nutrition, family program and services, elimination of violence against women and children, education and counseling on sexuality and sexual health, prevention and treatment of infertility and sexual dysfunction, and treatment of breast and reproductive tract cancers and other gynecological conditions.
Governor Crescencio Pacalso said the passage and implementation of the ordinance is a challenge to the officialdom of Benguet.
One challenge he cited is funds with the aim that no one should be left behind. With the existing facilities, there is a need for more people, hence, the need for necessary funding. They also need to be trained and capacitated to enhance their knowledge. But the good news is all these are doable, he said.
The code incorporates the appropriation of funds.
What can be done now would be a showcase of what will happen in the future, Pacalso said, as he expressed hope that the problems and concerns on the implementation of RH will not be passed on to officials in the future. **PIA Benguet
