The EPF delegation officially began its study tour in the Philippines, hosted by the Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), on 27 January 2025. Hon. Eva Biaudet (MP, Finland), Pia Hiltunen (MP, Finland), Lotta Johnsson Fornarve (MP, Sweden), Guillaume Gouffier-Valente (MP, France), Marilou McPhedran (MP, Canada), Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus (MEP, Poland), Liz Sugg (MP, UK), Mia Katarina Tolgfors (MP, Sweden), Vanessa Weenink (MP, New Zealand) and Ylenia Zambito (MP, Italy) participated to a meeting with key stakeholders, including Community and Family Services International, Women's Global Network for Reproductive Rights, Filipino Freethinkers/Philippine Safe Abortion Network, Family Planning 2030, Likhaan Centre for Women's Health, Médecins du Monde, the Commission on Population and Development, and the Philippine Commission on Women. Representatives from UNFPA and the EU Delegation to the Philippines also participated in the discussions. This diverse gathering of stakeholders brought a range of perspectives that contributed to a lively and insightful exchange. The discussions revolved around the SRHR legislative landscape in the Philippines, with a particular focus on adolescent pregnancy, access to contraceptives, maternal health and funding gaps.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited the House of Representatives, where they received a warm welcome and were officially welcomed into Parliament. Here, they had the opportunity to meet with Representatives Jude Acidre, Deputy Majority Leader; Arlene Brosas of the Gabriela Women's Party; France Castro of the ACT Teachers Party List; and Raoul Manuel of the Kabataan (Youth) Party List. Discussions focused on the Prevention of Pregnancy Bill and the CSI Bill, both authored by the legislators present in the room. Delegates and lawmakers emphasised the critical importance of these measures in addressing unmet SRHR needs while reflecting on the challenges of securing their passage. Legislators underscored their commitment to working across party lines to build consensus and advance these critical pieces of legislation.
The day concluded with reflections on the essential role of international advocacy and partnerships in supporting SRHR, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the Philippines.