Facts and evidence

Deputy leader of opposition

Address Health Concerns:
Women's needs aren't universally identical.
As claimed bya groundbreaking study titled 'Beyond Boundaries: Decriminalization and
Maternal Health Impact,' conducted by the Global Health Research Institute in collaboration with
the Philippine General Hospital, the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, and the University
of the Philippines College of Medicine. This comprehensive research, published in the Journal of
Women's Health, reveals that restrictive abortion laws in the Philippines contribute to increased
maternal mortality rates and heightened health complications, based on a representative sample
of women from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
The findings underscore the severe health risks imposed by criminalizing abortion and
emphasize the urgent need for evidence-based policymaking to safeguard women's health not
only in the Philippines but universally.
It is not beneficial for all women to access abortion*, especially considering the distinct health
challenges posed by restrictive laws, as highlighted by this compelling research. The focus
should shift towards evidence-based approaches that prioritize women's well-being across
diverse socio-economic contexts.
Responsibility and Empowerment:
Empowerment demands responsibility, not universal abortion accessibility. Women's needs
aren't universally identical.
Their proposition advocates for women's empowerment in reproductive decision-making, but
does unrestricted access to abortion truly empower women without a parallel focus on
comprehensive reproductive health education and accessible support systems?
Evidence:
Research from the University of the Philippines College of Medicine underscores the vital role
of comprehensive reproductive health education in empowering women. Without a strong
foundation in education and supportive structures, relying solely on abortion access might be
insufficient and overlook the broader aspects of reproductive empowerment.
Empowering women involves deciding on childbirth and reproductive activities, ensuring good
reproductive health. Community reproductive health services cannot predict their impact on
women’s empowerment. Increased control over fertility and family planning success is crucial
for women’s empowerment
Social Consequences
In granting all women access to abortion, we risk profound social consequences. It's not just a
medical procedure; it shapes our values and how we view life. Upholding the sanctity of life and
fostering a society that values alternatives to abortion is crucial for our collective well-being.