"Not just a legislation—it is a commitment": PHO II Dr. Tandingan underscores Protect BATA Kalinga ordinance's role in safeguarding adolescent reproductive health

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Edward B. Tandingan emphasized that the Protect BATA Kalinga Ordinance is not just a legal measure, describing it as a commitment to ensuring that adolescents have access to safe, quality, and age-appropriate reproductive health services.

Tandingan made the statement during the inaugural meeting of the Protect BATA Kalinga Council, also known as the Provincial Adolescent Health Development Council, and its Technical Working Group on July 7 at M-Hotel in Appas, Tabuk City.

Organized by the Provincial Government of Kalinga through the Office of the Provincial Health Officer, the meeting marked the council's first official gathering following the enactment of Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-019, or the "Protect BATA Kalinga: The Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy and Other Risky Behaviors Ordinance."

Addressing members of the council, Tandingan underscored that the ordinance represents the province's long-term commitment to empowering young people through education, informed decision-making, and accessible health services.

“Daytuy ket haan lang nga legislation, it is not just a legislation. It is a commitment, a commitment to provide our adolescence with access to safe and quality reproductive health services and to also empower them to make informed choices. Maikkan da iti informasyon tapnu makapili da para idjay bagi da para jay sarili da nu anya ti mayat nga pagturungan ti salun-at da,” said Tandingan.

Health experts have consistently emphasized that comprehensive adolescent reproductive health programs help reduce teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and other risky behaviors by providing young people with accurate information, counseling, and access to appropriate health services. Studies also show that adolescents who receive proper reproductive health education are more likely to make informed decisions, complete their education, and achieve better long-term health outcomes.

The inaugural meeting brought together key stakeholders from national and local government agencies to coordinate the implementation of the ordinance. Among those present were Governor James S. Edduba, Provincial Health Officer I Dr. Marilyn M. Duyan, Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Edward B. Tandingan, representatives from the Provincial Department of Health Office, the Commission on Population and Development-Cordillera Administrative Region (CPD-CAR), municipal Rural Health Units, health facilities across the province, and other partner agencies.

Through the Protect BATA Kalinga Council, the Provincial Government aims to strengthen collaboration among health providers, educators, and partner institutions to reduce adolescent pregnancy and other risky behaviors while ensuring that young people in Kalinga receive the support and services needed to make informed choices and lead healthier lives.