Public opinion polling firm Pulse Asia on Thursday reported that the majority (73 percent) of Filipinos are in favor of concepts like sexuality, sexual health, and family planning being taught in schools.
This is based on its nationwide survey conducted in March, which was within the campaign period for the midterm elections.
Respondents were asked if they agreed or disagreed with the statement, “It is important to teach concepts of sexuality, sexual health, and family planning in schools in an age-appropriate and culturally sensitive manner to help students make responsible and informed choices.”
A total of 73 percent of respondents agreed. Meanwhile, only 13 percent disagreed, and another 14 percent said they cannot say if they agree or disagree.
The survey’s overall error margin is ± 4.0 percentage points at the 95 percent level of confidence.
The Pulse Asia survey is the second public opinion poll that showed a favorable perception for the need for Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), following research by WR Numero conducted in April that showed 84.5 percent of Filipinos are in favor of CSE.
“We should not underestimate the importance Filipinos place on children receiving accurate information to help protect themselves from abuse, unwanted and early pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections such as HIV,” Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) executive director Au Quilala said.
“What is even more encouraging is the positive outlook the majority of Filipinos have in entrusting schools as spaces where children can have responsible discussions about their bodies and relationships,” she added.
PLCPD is the advocacy organization that commissioned the Pulse Asia survey in support of human development policymaking. It is also the convenor of the Child Rights Network, the largest advocacy alliance of organizations and government agencies pushing for child rights laws in the Philippines.
“CSE is not the only solution to preventing abuse, but it is part of the solution. We cannot turn a blind eye on children being sexually abused or becoming victims of statutory rape because we failed to give them the proper information they need in order to protect themselves,” Quilala concluded.
