Hillary makes pitch for reproductive health

MANILA, Philippines - Aware of opposition to artificial contraception from groups including the Catholic Church, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said yesterday her government would leave it up to the Philippines to decide if it would accept Washington’s offer of assistance in promoting planned parenthood and reproductive rights.

“Of course, as with any policy, we work with our partners and our allies. It is up to the people and the government of the Philippines to accept any assistance that we might be willing to offer, though I know this is a matter of concern in society here in the Philippines,” Clinton said at a press conference at the Goldenberg Mansion in Malacañang when asked for her stand on the controversial Reproductive Health Bill.

“I respect that and we certainly do not have any intention or plan to preempt or otherwise go beyond or around the attitude of the society,” she said.

Clinton said she personally believes that family planning is an important aspect of development because it empowers women by enabling them to make choices that are in the best interest of their children.

Family planning, she said, also increases educational competence, increases income generation, and provides a much stronger basis for human development.

“We have a lot of experience now trying to empower and educate women so they are able to make these decisions and they have access to family planning,” she said.

“It is not only a positive for the woman and her family but for the larger society,” Clinton said. “I think that is the other point that I would make, but again I would reiterate all these decisions are certainly up to the people and the government of the Philippines.” – Pia Lee-Brago