Siargao teens join fight against teen pregnancy
BUTUAN CITY -- More than a hundred adolescents from the communities in Siargao Islands struck by typhoon Odette took part on the Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health forum conducted by the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Caraga Region in partnership with the POPCOM regional offices in Mindanao.
Seventy adolescents attended the forum on February 21, 2022 in Dapa, Siargao Islands. Julie Ann Reyes, one of the nurses from the Rural Health Unit of Dapa, gave her testimony on how her life changed by making the right decisions regarding teenage pregnancy. Juvy Arreza of the Department of Education (DepEd)-Siargao and the teachers of Dapa National High School also provided assistance and coordinated the students of the said school.
Dasha Angelica Chu, a 16-year-old from Dapa, Siargao Islands is one of the participants of the said forum. She stated that teenagers should open their eyes to the consequences of pre-marital sex and that they should not rush such activity.
Another ASRH forum was held at the Sta. Monica Gymnasium on February 24, 2022. Seventy adolescents from Sapao National High School gladly participated despite the severe damage sustained by the venue from typhoon Odette.
One of the participants is Kat Merlin, 17 years old, from Sta. Monica, Siargao Islands. According to her, teenagers should be mindful and knowledgeable about the results of engaging early in sexual activities. She also said that parents should guide their children in the right way to keep them away from pre-marital sex.
The program manager for Adolescent Health and Development Program of POPCOM-Caraga, Angelita Antonio, presented topics on teenage pregnancy through short films and slideshow presentations. Alconsita Portillano of the Department of Health (DOH)-Caraga Region provided additional insights and clarifications regarding teenage pregnancy. (Gabrielle Paolo M. Mordeno, POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
