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Group 3 Script Final

The podcast 'Legal Bonds: The Law and Family Relations' discusses various laws affecting Filipino families, focusing on the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the Philippine Telecommuting Act, and the prohibition of child marriage. Experts provide insights on the rights and benefits available to solo parents, the legal framework for telecommuting arrangements, and the implications of child marriage laws. The hosts aim to make legal concepts relatable and empower listeners with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities.

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Genesis Miranda
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
6 views21 pages

Group 3 Script Final

The podcast 'Legal Bonds: The Law and Family Relations' discusses various laws affecting Filipino families, focusing on the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the Philippine Telecommuting Act, and the prohibition of child marriage. Experts provide insights on the rights and benefits available to solo parents, the legal framework for telecommuting arrangements, and the implications of child marriage laws. The hosts aim to make legal concepts relatable and empower listeners with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities.

Uploaded by

Genesis Miranda
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 21

GROUP 3

FAMILY RELATIONS-RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD


PODCAST SCRIPT

TITLE: LEGAL BONDS: THE LAW AND FAMILY RELATIONS

Opening Spiel: (Host)


HOST 1:
Good day to all our loyal listeners, viewers, and subscribers—welcome to a space
where law meets everyday life.
HOST 2:

This is Legal Bonds: The Law and Family Relations—your trusted companion in
understanding the rules, rights, and responsibilities that shape the Filipino family.

HOST 1:
I am Genesis Miranda —
HOST 2:
— and I’m Angela Keith Dialola. Together, we’ll guide you through meaningful
conversations that bridge legal concepts with real-world experiences.
HOST 1:
Our Constitution calls the family the foundation of the nation, and in this podcast, we
give that principle a voice—exploring how laws protect, strengthen, and empower
Filipino homes.
HOST 2:
From the evolving challenges of solo parenthood to the flexibility of telecommuting, from
safeguarding our children against early marriage to tackling questions on the age of
criminal liability, from protecting individuals through the Anti-Mail Order Spouse Act to
promoting health and informed choices under the RH Law—we’re here to break it all
down, clearly and practically.
HOST 1:

Each part, we welcome legal experts, social workers, advocates, and sometimes even
our listeners themselves—sharing stories, answering questions, and making the law
relatable to you.

HOST 2:
So wherever you are—on your morning commute, at your office desk, or relaxing at
home—stay with us as we dive into today’s discussion. Because when it comes to
family and the law, understanding your rights is the first step to protecting what matters
most.
HOST 1:
We shall begin with our guests from the Department of Social Welfare and
Development, our registered social workers, Mr. Carlo Villanueva and Ms.Ruby Perez,
to give us their insights on the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11861: EXPANDED SOLO PARENTS WELFARE ACT

MR. VILLANUEVA:
Thank you, Ms. Good day to our listeners. We are glad to be invited in this podcast and
to talk about the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.
●​ Foremost, the Republic Act No. 11861 otherwise known as the “Expanded Solo
Parent Welfare Act” took effect on 04 June 2022.
●​ This law effectively amended Section 1 of Republic Act No. 8972, entitled “An Act
Providing for Benefits and Privileges to Solo Parents and their Children,
Appropriating Funds Therefore and For Other Purposes.
●​ Additionally, this is in line with the policy of the State to promote social justice in
all phases of national development, value the dignity of every human person and
guarantee full respect for human rights.

HOST 1: Mr. Villanueva, we often received questions from our listeners: how does this
act different from RA 8972?

MR. VILLANUEVA: Alright Genesis. That’s actually a very good question.

To better understand the difference between the amended RA 11861 from RA 8972.
Here are the following key and salient features of the said act:

1.​ Amendment on the definition of Children or Dependents which refers to


those living with and dependent upon the solo parent for support who are
unmarried, unemployed and twenty-two (22) years old or below, or those over
twenty-two (22) years old but who are unable to fully take care or protect
themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation, or discrimination because
of a physical or mental disability or condition.
2.​ Creation of Solo Parents Office or Division, the law provides for the
establishment of a Solo Parent Office (SPO) in every province and city and a
Solo Parent Division (SPD) under the Municipal Social Welfare and Development
Office in every municipality.

Host 1: That’s interesting to know that the act created an office for solo parents to cater
their needs.

MR. Villanueva: Exactly Genesis, but aside from this office, the act also established
the Inter-Agency Coordinating and Monitoring Committee. This committee shall
accurately gather demographic data on the solo parents and their children, by utilizing
the Community-based Monitoring System (CBMS). Moreover, this Inter-Agency is
chaired and co-chaired by the Secretaries of the Social Welfare and Development and
the Interior and Local Government, respectively, and joined by 16 member government,
civil society, and non-government organizations. Additionally, RA 11861 further
delineated the categories of solo parents, their additional benefits, and documentary
requirements for eligible solo parents. An in-depth discussion of this amendment will be
provided by my fellow social worker, Ruby. Thank you.

HOST 1: Thank you also, Mr. Carlo Villanueva for that informative discussions on the
background and salient provisions of the act. I’ve heard that our listeners have more
queries on RA 11861. Partner, may we know other questions.

HOST 2:

Yes partner, another question for our listeners — do you know someone who’s raising a
child alone? Maybe a friend, a co-worker… or maybe, it’s you.Our topic today goes
beyond the pages of the law and into real life — the rights and benefits that support solo
parents. Our guest has spent years working with families, and seeing firsthand how the
law can change lives. Please welcome, social worker Ms. Ruby Perez.

MS. PEREZ:

Thank you, Ms. Angela! And good afternoon to all our listeners. This topic is more than
just part of my work, it’s something I’ve experienced up close. That’s why I’m truly
excited to share what I know today, so we can empower solo parents, their families, and
even friends who might be tuning in.

So, we have the Republic Act No. 11861, which amends the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act,
it is actually packed with real-life help.

Let’s start with the categories. When we say “solo parent,” we don’t just mean single
moms or dads. The law now recognizes many situations.
HOST 1:

In fact, Ms. Ruby, we’ve got some questions from our listeners here. The first one says:
“I’m caring for my niece because her parents are working abroad. Does that make me a
solo parent under the law?”

MS. PEREZ:

Good question! Yes, if you’re a relative up to the 4th degree by blood or affinity
taking care of a child because the parents are gone, missing, or away for at least 6
months, you can qualify. Same goes for caring for a child of an OFW in the low or
semi-skilled category who’s been out of the country for 12 uninterrupted months.

HOST 2:

Alright, next one — “My husband has been in jail for four months. I’m the only one
supporting the kids. Do I count?”

MS. PEREZ:

Yes, you do. If your spouse is detained for at least 3 months or is serving a sentence,
you fall under the solo parent category.

HOST 1:

Here’s another: “I’m separated from my partner, but it’s not legal separation — we’ve
just been living apart for about seven months. I have custody of the kids. Do I qualify?”

MS. PEREZ:

Yes! The law includes legal or de facto separation of at least 6 months, as long as you
have sole parental care.

HOST 2:

Wow, it really covers a lot. Can you give us a quick run-through of other situations?

RUBY:

Sure. The law also includes:

●​ Mothers raising a child from a pregnancy caused by rape (no need for a final
conviction, just proof of sole care).
●​ Widows or widowers.
●​ Spouses with physical or mental incapacity, certified by a doctor.
●​ Annulment, nullity of marriage, or divorce recognized under PH law, with full
custody.
●​ Abandonment by spouse for at least 6 months.
●​ Unmarried parents raising their child.
●​ Legal guardians, adoptive or foster parents with sole care.
●​ Solo grandparents caring for unmarried, unemployed grandchildren 22 or
younger, or older if they have a disability.
●​ Even pregnant women provide sole care for their unborn child.

HOST 1:

It sounds like almost everyone knows someone who fits in one of these categories.

MS. PEREZ:

Exactly. And knowing your category matters, because that’s your ticket to benefits.

Here’s the exciting part, solo parents can now avail:

●​ Social Protection Services like counseling, livelihood training, and stress


debriefing.
●​ Parental Leave — up to 7 working days with pay each year.
●​ Education Support — scholarships from DepEd, CHED, TESDA, and other
programs.
●​ Social Safety Assistance during disasters, pandemics, or public health crises.
●​ Discounts & VAT exemptions on baby milk, food supplements, diapers,
medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies.

HOST 2:

Okay, now how do they claim all that?

MS. PEREZ:

Step one: Apply for your Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC) and booklet.

If you’re a solo parent because of rape or death of a spouse, you’ll need:

1.​ Birth certificate/s of the child or children


2.​ Complaint affidavit
3.​ Medical record related to the incident (if applicable)
4.​ Sworn affidavit

For other situations like spouse detention, separation, annulment, abandonment, or


being an OFW family caregiver — you’ll need supporting documents like court orders,
barangay certifications, or medical proof.

HOST 1:

Sounds like a bit of paperwork.


MS. PEREZ:

Yes, but without it, you’re missing out on benefits you already deserve. And remember,
you can visit a Social Welfare office in your municipality that can guide you through the
process.

HOST 2:

Ruby, this was packed with info but still easy to digest. Thank you for sharing it in a way
that makes people actually want to apply!

MS. PEREZ:

It’s my pleasure. And to all solo parents listening: you’re not just doing it alone. And
now, you know your rights and your benefits, so go claim them!
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11165: PHILIPPINE TELECOMMUTING ACT

HOST 2:

Thank you for very insightful discussions, Mr. Villanueva and Ms. Perez. The law indeed
empowers our solo parents through extended benefits and protection.

HOST 1:

Now, we’re shifting to another piece of legislation that became even more relevant
during the pandemic—Republic Act No. 11165, or the Philippine Telecommuting Act.

HOST 2:

Joining us today is someone who’s been helping employers and employees navigate
the world of remote work for years—Atty. De Guzman, a labor lawyer and professor.
Welcome, Counsel.

ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

Thank you. It’s a pleasure to be here.

HOST 2:

We received a question from one of our listeners, a single mother balancing work and
home responsibilities. Let’s hear from our caller.

CALLER:

Good day. As a single mom, my commute is long and tiring. Can I request my company
to allow me to work from home? And can I legally compel them to say yes?

ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

That’s a very real challenge. Under RA 11165, you absolutely can request a
telecommuting arrangement. However, the law does not give you the power to compel
your employer to agree.

The telecommuting program is voluntary and requires mutual consent between


employer and employee. Employers have management prerogative to decide if such
arrangements fit their operations.

HOST 1:

So it’s a request, not a demand.


ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

Exactly. But as a solo parent, RA 8972, as amended by RA 11861, gives you priority in
availing flexible work arrangements. This still isn’t a guarantee of work-from-home, but
it’s a strong legal basis for starting that conversation with your employer.

LEARNING TAKEAWAY:​

HOST 1:

If you’re a solo parent, you can’t force a work-from-home setup, but you do have priority
rights under the Expanded Solo Parents Act—use that to open constructive discussions
with your employer.

HOST 1:

We have another question from our previous caller.

CALLER:

Hi, yes it’s me again. My company asked me to work from home, and I agreed. But now
my manager says my salary will be reduced because I’m saving on commuting from
Cavite to Makati. Is that legal?

ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

The answer is a clear no.

RA 11165 guarantees parity of rights—remote employees must receive the same pay
and benefits as those working on-site. That includes overtime, night shift differential,
and all statutory benefits.

The Labor Code’s no diminution of benefits principle also applies. Your pay is for your
work and skills, not your transportation costs.

HOST 2:

So, any salary cut just because you’re at home is illegal.

ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

Correct. The law treats your home as an extension of the workplace—the work is the
same, so the pay must be the same.
LEARNING TAKEAWAY:​

HOST 2:

If your pay is reduced just because you’re telecommuting, that’s a violation of RA 11165
and the Labor Code. Report it to DOLE if needed.

Closing Summary

HOST 1:

Today, we learned that:

1.​ Telecommuting is voluntary—it requires agreement from both sides.​

2.​ Solo parents have priority in flexible work arrangements, but not an automatic
right to WFH.​

3.​ Salary and benefits cannot be reduced simply because you work from home.​

HOST 2:

RA 11165 isn’t just a work-from-home law—it’s a law about fairness, equal treatment,
and protecting workers in a changing workplace.

ATTY. DE GUZMAN:

Always have a written telecommuting agreement that spells out your terms. That
protects both you and your employer.

HOST 2:

Thank you, Atty. De Guzman, for the clarity, and thank you to our caller for their
important questions.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11596: THE PROHIBITION OF CHILD MARRIAGE IN THE
PHILIPPINES

HOST 1:

Thank you for sharing your knowledge of the law, it is indeed an informative one.

HOST 2:

I could not agree more, partner. From timely and relevant laws of solo parents act and
telecommuting act, we will now proceed with a quiet sensitive topic of family relations,
the child marriage and the law prohibiting it. Let’s dig into that law with Ms. Tayaban,
one of the founders of SOS Children’s Village Philippines, a non-government group that
promotes and provides for a normal family environment for children.

Good Afternoon, Ms. Tayaban. Can you tell us more about this law prohibiting child
marriage?

MS. TAYABAN:

Good Afternoon. RA 11596, signed into law on December 10, 2021, criminalizes child
marriage, declaring it a form of child abuse and a public crime. The Act aims to protect
children's well-being, abolish discriminatory practices, and affirm human rights by
ensuring marriage is entered into with free and full consent of capacitated parties, with
the best interests of the child as the primary consideration.

HOST 1:
For clarity, how does the law define a “child” and “child marriage”?
MS. TAYABAN:

This law states that a child is anyone below eighteen years of age, or eighteen and
above but unable to fully protect themselves due to a physical or mental disability. Child
marriage refers to any union — civil, church, traditional, or informal cohabitation —
where one or both parties are children.

HOST 2:
What acts are prohibited, and what are the penalties?

MS. TAYABAN:

The law prohibits causing, fixing, facilitating, or arranging child marriage; producing
fraudulent documents to misrepresent a child’s age; officiating child marriages; and
cohabitation of an adult with a child outside wedlock.
Penalties include prisión mayor in varying periods, fines from ₱40,000 to ₱50,000.

If you’re a parent, guardian, or public official, penalties are even tougher — it includes
losing parental authority and if you’re a public official, losing your position.

HOST 1:
What is the legal effect of such marriages?

MS. TAYABAN:

They are void ab initio — with no legal effect from the beginning — and actions for
nullity do not prescribe. The prohibited acts are classified as public crimes, so
prosecution may be initiated by any concerned individual.

On the lighter side, the law prescribes preventive measures as it mandates a


multi-sectoral approach led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development,
supported by agencies like the Council for the Welfare of Children and the Department
of Justice. These agencies work to create an enabling social environment where the
practice of child marriage shall not thrive, emphasizing culturally sensitive
implementation and community engagement.

HOST 2:

Ms. Tayaban, if you could give your key takeaway about this law, what would it be?

MS. TAYABAN:

The key takeaway is: child marriage is not just a cultural or family matter — it’s a public
crime. The law protects children’s rights, dignity, and future. If you know someone at
risk, speak up. You can report it to authorities, and the law is on your side.

HOST 2:

Thank you, Ms. Tayaban. We salute you for your valuable work for our children.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9344: RE: AGE OF CRIMINAL LIABILITY

HOST 1:

So, partner—we’re actually moving on to a topic that’s close to my heart—our children,


and what happens when they stumble, make mistakes, or find themselves in risky
situations. It often sparks strong opinions—the age of criminal liability. We’ll be talking
about Republic Act No. 9344, also known as the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

HOST 2:

It is also near and dear to my heart, partner. And I know that when we hear about kids
“in conflict with the law,” the first reaction can be fear, shame, or even anger. But this
law sees things differently—it says, “Wait. This is a child. Let’s help them find their way
back.” It’s about rehabilitation, not punishment, and it puts families at the very center
of that process.​

HOST 1:

This law isn’t about punishing children—it’s about guiding them back when they’ve lost
their way. And to make this conversation real, we’ve invited some listeners to share their
situations with us together with our resident legal resource person, Atty. Bagul.

Segment 1 – The Law and a Parent’s Concern

HOST 2:

Thank you so much for joining Atty. Bagul. To proceed, our first caller is from Laguna.
Hi, you’re on the line—please share your concern.

CALLER:

Hello po. My 14-year-old son was caught with some friends vandalizing a wall.
Someone told me he can be jailed. Is that true? I’m very worried.

HOST 1:

Atty. Bagul, how does RA 9344 address this?

ATTY. BAGUL:

Under RA 9344, the minimum age of criminal responsibility is 15 years old. This
means:

●​ If your son is 15 or younger at the time of the offense, he is exempt from


criminal liability.​
●​ However, he is not exempt from civil liability, and the act is still addressed
through intervention programs.​

Since your son is 14, he cannot be imprisoned like an adult. Instead, the law requires
the authorities to release him to your custody and refer him to community-based
interventions—like counseling, skills training, or community service.

CALLER:

So he won’t go to jail?

ATTY. BAGUL:

No, not to jail. The focus is on rehabilitation and guidance—often with strong parental
involvement—to help him take responsibility and avoid reoffending.

LEARNING TAKEAWAY:​

HOST 2:

For parents listening: If your child is 15 or younger, they cannot be jailed under RA
9344, but you have a legal and moral responsibility to cooperate in their
rehabilitation.

Segment 2 – What About Minors Above 15?

HOST 1:

Our next caller is a barangay official. Sir, go ahead.

CALLER:

Atty., what if a youth is 16 and commits theft? Can they still claim they’re a minor to
avoid jail?

ATTY. BAGUL:

Good question. If the child is above 15 but below 18, RA 9344 says they are
criminally liable only if they acted with discernment—meaning they understood the
consequences of their actions.

It’s the court or social worker’s job to assess discernment. If discernment is present, the
child may face legal proceedings, but:
●​ They must be detained separately from adults.​

●​ They must still receive rehabilitation services.​

If discernment is not proven, they are treated like those under 15—placed in diversion
or intervention programs instead of facing trial.

CALLER:

So it’s not automatic that a 16-year-old goes to jail?

ATTY. BAGUL:

Correct. The law balances accountability with the child’s developmental stage.

LEARNING TAKEAWAY:​

HOST 1:

For barangay officials and law enforcers: Always determine the child’s age and
assess for discernment before filing charges. The law requires rehabilitation to be
a primary consideration.

Segment 3 – The Role of Social Workers

HOST 2:

Our final caller is a social worker from Davao. Ma’am, what’s your experience with this
law?

CALLER:

I’ve handled cases where minors are in trouble, but parents refuse to participate in the
rehabilitation plan. What does the law say?

ATTY. BAGUL:

RA 9344 is clear: the family is the primary support system for a child in conflict with
the law.

●​ Parents are required to participate in diversion programs and aftercare.​


●​ If they refuse, local authorities can still implement the program, but parental
cooperation is strongly encouraged for success.​

The law even allows for court orders directing parents to fulfill their responsibilities.

HOST 1:

So Ma’am, in your work, parental involvement isn’t just helpful—it’s legally expected.

CALLER:

Exactly. And when parents are engaged, rehabilitation is much more effective.

LEARNING TAKEAWAY:

HOST 2:

For everyone: RA 9344 is not only about the child—it’s about the family’s role in
guiding them back on the right path.

Closing Summary

HOST 1:

Today, RA 9344 reminds us that justice for children is not about punishment—it’s about
protecting their future while ensuring accountability in a way that helps them grow into
responsible adults.

HOST 2:

Once again, thank you so much Atty. Bagul and our dear caller.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10906: ANTI-MAIL ORDER SPOUSE

Segment 1 – RA 10906: Protecting Against Exploitative Matchmaking

HOST 1:

To continue, together with us today is our resident legal resource person, Atty. Sosa,
who will help us navigate two important pieces of legislation.

First, Republic Act No. 10906, or the Anti-Mail Order Spouse Act, which safeguards
Filipinos—especially women—from exploitative matchmaking schemes.

And second, Republic Act No. 10354, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive
Health Act of 2012, which ensures every Filipino has access to reproductive health
services and education.

HOST 2:

Our first caller is Ms. Emily from Pampanga. Emily, welcome to the program—please
share your concern.

MS. EMILY:

Thank you, Ma’am. My younger sister met a foreigner online. They’ve never met in
person, but he says he can arrange everything for their marriage abroad through a
certain website. I’m worried—can this be legal?

HOST 1:

Atty. Sosa, what does the law say?

ATTY. SOSA:

Emily, under RA 10906, it is illegal for any individual, business, or website to engage in
the matching of a Filipino to a foreign national for marriage or common-law partnership
for a fee.

Even if your sister agrees, the law recognizes that these arrangements often lead to
abuse, exploitation, or human trafficking.
MS. EMILY:

So, even if she says she’s willing, it’s still not allowed?

ATTY. SOSA:

Yes, because willingness does not remove the risk of exploitation. The law prohibits
the business model itself—not just forced cases.

There are also penalties: imprisonment of up to 15 years and fines up to ₱500,000 for
those operating such services.

HOST 2:

And Emily, if you suspect exploitation, the law provides victim protection
programs—legal aid, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter through DSWD,
DFA, and DOJ.

LEARNING TAKEAWAY:

HOST 1:

So, for everyone listening: If you or someone you know is being matched with a
foreigner through a paid service, report it. RA 10906 is there to protect your
dignity, your safety, and your future.

HOST 2:

Yes partner I agree, everyone should always remain vigilant at all times.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10354: RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD AND REPRODUCTIVE
HEALTH ACT OF 2012

Segment 2 – RA 10354: Supporting Responsible Parenthood

HOST 1:

Our next caller is Ms. Labicane, a law student from Arellano University School of Law.
According to Ms. Labicane, she understood the real impact of R.A. 10354 during an outreach
program in law school. Tell us more about that

MS. LABICANE:

Yes. Back then, I joined a medical and legal mission in a small, remote town in Northern Samar.
That’s where I met Marites—she was only 22 years old, already had three children, and lived
hours away from the nearest health clinic.

Her first baby was born at home with no medical help. There was no midwife, no prenatal care,
not even basic medicines. Sadly, the baby didn’t survive.

HOST 1:

That’s truly heartbreaking.

MS. LABICANE:

It was. And I’ll never forget what she told me: “If we had a clinic here before, my baby might still
be alive.” That’s when it clicked—laws like the Reproductive Health Law aren’t just about policy.
They’re about preventing tragedies like hers.

HOST 1:

Let’s break it down in plain language. What does the Reproductive Health Law actually require
from the government?

MS. BARIS:

There are four main responsibilities under the law:

1.​ Better Health Facilities – Local governments must set up or upgrade hospitals, birthing
clinics, and health centers, especially in remote areas, so mothers can get proper care
before, during, and after childbirth.
2.​ Trained Health Workers – Doctors, nurses, and midwives must be assigned to
communities that have none.

3.​ Correct Information – People have the right to complete, accurate, and unbiased
information about reproductive health, family planning, and maternal care.

4.​ Free Family Planning Supplies – Anyone—married or not—can access family planning
services and supplies for free.

And it’s important to clear this up—the RH Law does not legalize abortion. It’s focused on
prevention, safe pregnancy, and informed choices.

HOST 1:

Exactly. It’s about helping parents plan their families, ensuring safe motherhood, and protecting
the health of both mothers and children.

Segment 3: How It Helped in Real Life

MS. LABICANE:

Here’s the best part of the story. A year later, I went back to the same town. This time, there was
a small birthing clinic with a midwife on duty 24/7, basic medical equipment, and free prenatal
vitamins for expecting mothers.

Marites gave birth to her fourth child there—with proper care, safe delivery, and a healthy baby.

MS. BARIS:

That’s exactly the kind of change this law is meant to create—turning high-risk situations into
safe, hopeful ones.

Segment 4: Clearing Misunderstandings

MS. LABICANE:

The RH Law faced a lot of opposition when it was first introduced, right?

MS. BARIS:
Yes. Some groups believed it promoted abortion or would encourage immorality. But once
people understood that it’s about saving lives, preventing unwanted pregnancies, and giving
families the power to decide—without taking away anyone’s right to say “no” to family
planning—it became more accepted.

MS. LABICANE:

So, does that mean part of making this law work is making sure people understand what it really
says?

MS. BARIS:

Absolutely. Education is half the battle.

Segment 5: Why You Should Know This Law

MS. BARIS:

If you don’t have access to maternal care, reproductive health services, or family planning
options, you have the right to request these from your local government. This is not a
privilege—it’s your right under the law.

HOST 2:

Laws aren’t just words on paper—they’re tools for real change. But they only work if people
know about them and speak up when they’re not being implemented.

The RH Law isn’t just about pills or condoms. Sometimes, it’s the reason a mother survives
childbirth and gets to raise her child.

Legal Rights Under the RH Law

HOST 1:

Before we sign off, here’s a quick reminder of your legal rights:

1.​ You have the right to free and accessible reproductive health services in your
community.

2.​ You have the right to choose the family planning method—natural or artificial—that
works for you, without pressure or coercion.
3.​ You have the right to emergency maternal and newborn care, especially during
pregnancy and childbirth.

4.​ You have the right to age-appropriate reproductive health education in school.

5.​ Your local government is required to provide these services—it’s not a favor, it’s the law.

HOST 2:
And remember—abortion is still illegal in the Philippines. The RH Law is about prevention,
informed choice, and safe motherhood.​

Closing Summary

HOST 2:With that, today’s podcast is now coming to an end. But before me and my
partner say goodbye, we would like to end today's episode citing the Court, who wrote
in Tuason vs. Court of Appeals that:

HOST 1:

"Our Constitution is committed to the policy of strengthening the family as a basic social
institution. Our family law is based on the policy that marriage is not a mere contract,
but a social institution in which the state is vitally interested. The state can find no
stronger anchor than on good, solid and happy families. The break up of families
weakens our social and moral fabric and, hence, their preservation is not the concern
alone of the family members."

HOST 1:

This has been Legal Bonds: The Law and Family Relations. I’m Genesis Miranda,

HOST 2:

And I am Angela Keith Dialola, reminding you: an informed citizen is a protected citizen!

Until next time, stay safe, and stay informed!

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