NGO urges gov’t to reduce taxes on condoms

ILOILO City – A United States- based nonprofit organization yesterday called on government regulators to lower taxes on condoms to increase accessibility and to make it easier for Filipinos to practice safe sex.

In a press conference, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Philippines admitted that societal taboo is still one of the challenges they are facing resulting in low utilization of condoms.

Themed “Safer is Sexy, Always in Fashion,” the AHF celebrated International World Condom Day on Feb. 13, a day before Valentine’s Day.

It is designed to raise awareness of the importance of condom use in preventing sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

“We do integrated events and open dialogue and education for the promotion of sexual health and condom use,” said Nenita LaudeOrtega, AHF Philippines country manager.

AHF Philippines believes that condoms remain the optimal choice for ensuring safer and more enjoyable intimate moments with one’s partner.

AHF Philippines is hosting a month-long activities in celebration of International Condoms Day.

It aims to educate on condom use, distribute free condoms, and encourage everyone to either start or continue using condoms consistently.

AHF Philippines i s also conducting a series of activities emphasizing the importance of safe sex practices, promoting consistent condom usage, and providing educational resources on sexual health.

In the press conference, Ortega said t hat AHF Philippines has introduced a comprehensive sexuality program that complements the health department’s program.

These include providing baseline laboratory support to the target residents as part rationale for the cascade of health care.

“Our theme ‘ Always in Fashion’ aims to send a message that by using condoms you are safe from danger of getting sexually i nfected disease and unwanted pregnancies,” said Ortega.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) i n Reg i on 6 s howed 166 reported cases of pregnancies in girls aged 10 to 14, an uptick from previous years, illustrating a concerning trend across various provinces and cities within the region./