DepEd: No prurient modules in sex education

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Education clarifies that classroom discussions on sex education is not about the sexual act but rather on the science of reproduction, physical care and hygiene, correct values and the norms of interpersonal relations to avoid pre-marital sex and teenage pregnancy.

DepEd Secretary Mona Valisno said that the contents of the modules that will be integrated in core subjects are scientific, informative and are not designed to titillate prurient interest of the students.

This is contrary to apprehensions by those who are opposed to the program that it will teach the young students the act of sexual intercourse and how to make it safe to avoid getting pregnant as well as the sexually transmitted diseases.

 Valisno explained that it is DepEd’s role to educate the young people on issues that directly affect them and empower them to make informed choices and decisions.

The sex education modules will be pilot tested starting this school year in some 79 public secondary schools and 80 elementary schools across the country. In Central Visayas only Bohol was included in the piloting.

Valisno added that DepEd is still open for consultations and it shall be the next administration that will decide whether or not to implement this fully, revise the modules, apply on selected schools, or totally scrap the program.   (FREEMAN NEWS)