Commission on Population and Development commends Drew Arellano for undergoing vasectomy

Kapuso host Drew Arellano received praises from a local government agency on population management after revealing that he recently underwent a vasectomy as a special gift to wife Iya Villania ahead of Mother’s Day.

In an Instagram post shared earlier this week, the “Biyahe ni Drew” host posted a photo of himself in a hospital gown, moments before the procedure.

Drew captioned the photo: “Happy late and advanced Mother’s Day to my wife. #HappyVA-SEC-TO-MEEE #snipsnip #SarapYungSedativeAh.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, a vasectomy is a form of male birth control and is considered a minor surgical procedure, which involves cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm.

Drew and Iya previously welcomed their fifth child to their growing family that now consists of Primo, Leon, Alana, Astro and Anya.

Following the move, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) released an official statement on Wednesday, commending him for exemplifying “male involvement in family planning” — as only few Filipino men in the country have undergone vasectomy.

Its statement read, “The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) lauds Mr. Drew Arellano, a television personality, for receiving vasectomy as his manifestation of love and appreciation for his spouse and family. This gesture strongly exemplifies responsible parenthood and family planning as promoted by the CPD.”

The CPD viewed this as a positive development amid the very low male participation in family planning, with only 0.1 percent of Filipino men choosing no-scalpel vasectomy, while women continue to bear most of the responsibility.

Prior to the recognition, Arellano had also drawn praises from fellow celebrities and netizens, with many applauding him for promoting male contraception and for taking an active role in responsible parenting.

“Sa mga kalalakihan diyan, dapat ito tularan,” actress Carla Abellana commented.

“Walking green flag,” family-centered magazine Smart Parenting wrote.

“Woooohooooo sooo proud of you pars!!!!!” reacted Camille Prats.

“Thank you for sharing this personal choice. Legend,” added Iza Calzado.

Netizens also lauded Drew on social media platforms with messages calling him “brave,” “responsible” and an “inspiration” to other fathers.