Education Sec. Leonor Magtolis-Briones said the Department of Education is strongly against the plan of the Department of Health of distribute condoms to students in public schools.
In an interview Tuesday, Secretary Briones said while the Department understands the seriousness of the increasing number of cases in the country of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the plan of the DOH to distribute condoms in the schools to combat its spread is not ideal as there are “certain preconditions” of its correct use that one cannot demonstrate in class, she pointed out.
Unprotected sex increases the risk of spreading/contracting the HIV infection which, when left untreated, can cause the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
AIDS can also be developed from contaminated blood transfusions, the use of hypodermic needles, and from mother-to-child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Symptons may range from influenza-like illnesses, tuberculosis, tumors, or weight loss. There is no known cure or vaccine. Bodily fluids, such as saliva and tears, do not transmit HIV.
Briones said the DepEd cannot go beyond the decision of the Supreme Court and the Executive Order of the President on its role to increase AIDs awareness within the schools, including awareness of the Reproductive Health law, and improving the curriculum.
She said DepEd does not have the expertise to deal with condom distribution, aside from the legal boundaries. (JFP/JG)
