Pro-life advocates fear Magna Carta of Women may lead to abortion law

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal joins calls with Iloilo Archbishop Angel Lagdameo and Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales in questioning the recently approved Magna Carta of Women.

This, after members of Pro-life Philippines, nationwide, got alarmed with the recent approval of the Magna Carta of Women even if such promotes women’s rights against discrimination because it “could pave the way for the passage of the Reproductive Health Bill and the potential crafting of an abortion law.”

Marita Wasan of Pro-Life Philippines has asked the Catholic Bishops of the Philippines and parents to be vigilant on the ill effects of Republic Act 9710 to the younger generation, especially on the law’s provisions that promote pro-choice mentality like what the disputed Reproductive Health Bill allegedly advocates.

“Although there are good provisions in the law, there remain some provisions that promote anti-life and pro-choice mentality. This is why pro-lifers have more work to do and we really rely on the help of the bishops to warn the Catholic faithful to be vigilant on how this law would be implemented,” she said.

Wasan particularly referred to the retention of the provision that classified contraceptives, which are scientifically abortifacient in nature, as “ethical drugs,” or those medicines or apparatus that can be bought only with a prescription.

“Let us stand by our faith and morals. We should interpret the words ‘ethical’ and ‘population management’ based on our moral values and not let the technicalities of the law dictate our conscience,” Wasan added.

However, Dr. Rene Joseph Bullecer, a pro-life advocate, is optimistic enough that there is nothing to worry with the approval of the Magna Carta of Women.

This after 98 percent of the provisions is said to be already “sanitized”.

Also, he lauded Cebu City North District Rep. Raul del Mar and Senator Juan Ponce Enrile who he said have been very instrumental in the rechecking of the said magna carta. — Johanna T. Natavio/MEEV   (THE FREEMAN)