Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 2) — The Commission on Population and Development is encouraging community pantry organizers to consider distributing contraceptives, such as condoms and pills.
POPCOM executive director Usec. Juan Antonio Perez III noted that family planning services and commodities are considered essential in a bid to prevent teenage and unplanned pregnancies during the pandemic.
He added that the distribution of contraceptives through community pantries could help in “filling the void” in the rollout of family planning activities, which was disrupted by the pandemic.
“POPCOM is very much supportive of community pantries as a form of collective action in alleviating the need for sustenance of our less privileged. We believe that they will welcome the addition of condoms and pills among the goods they will source, with the help of their local healthcare personnel,” said Perez in a statement.
With the rise of community pantries in different parts of the country, some organizers are also providing other items aside from food and other basic necessities. One organizer in Taguig City has recently set up a community pantry that also offers condoms, lubricants, and sanitary items.
The POPCOM said community pantry organizers can seek the help of barangay health workers and population volunteers.
“As the most popular family planning method, pills need a prescription or enrollment in the family planning program. Our BHWs and BPVs can be invited to assist in dispensing such,” said Perez, referring to barangay health workers and barangay population volunteers, respectively.
“On the other hand, condoms may be freely given to those who are sexually active and want to avoid HIV infections and other sexually transmitted infections or STIs, as well as those who are mindful of preventing unplanned pregnancies,” he added.
The POPCOM has reminded Filipino couples last year to practice responsible parenthood and family planning amid the pandemic. It said there is always an increase in unplanned pregnancies during natural calamities, when couples and families stay together for longer periods.
