JOURNO EP24: on Reproductive Health Bill

The president is now being criticized for dropping the Freedom of Information Bill and Reproductive Health Bill in his list of priority measures. Supporters of the bill expressed disappointment when Aquino withdrew his support for RH and FOI. Early in his bid for presidency, Aquino expressed his strong support for RH bill. Two days after the 14th Congress was adjourned last year, Aquino said in an interview that as soon as he becomes president, he will prioritize the Freedom of Information Bill saying it would be better if there was "force of law." But recently, the Palace is saying the President never really pushed for RH bill. Malacanang has since recommended that Congress approve a new bill, the Responsible Parenthood, which many claim, is very similar to RH bill. Despite Aquino's withdrawal of support for RH bill, he still has not gained the approval of the church, saying RH bill was merely renamed under Responsible Parenthood bill.

This week Journo looks into two most controversial bills today and looks back at Aquino's promises during his campaign. Why were these bills dropped from Aquino's priority list? How does this reflect on Aquino's administration?

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• journo luchi cruz-valdes
• TV5
• columnist
• bloggers
• RH Bill
• reproductive Health
• PNoy
• Freedom of Information Bill
• priority list
• Beth Angsioco
• Noemi Dado