Palace assures public of ‘straightforward’ implementation of RH law

With the signing of the implementing rules and regulations of the Reproductive Health law Friday, Malacañang assured the public Saturday of a “straightforward” implementation of the new measure. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government will strictly follow the IRRs once the full implementation of the law starts on March 31, Easter Sunday. “Magiging straightforward ang IRR. Kung ano ang nakalagay sa batas 'yan lang ibabalangkas ng IRR," she said on government-run dzRB radio. She also downplayed speculations of religious significance in the Easter Sunday date, when the RH law will be fully implemented. “May palugit na binigay ang batas kung kailan dapat ilabas ang IRR. Sana hindi magkaroon ng ibang kulay," she said. Catholic Church officials and their allies had opposed the RH measure because of its provision allowing artificial contraception. The Church allows only natural family planning. On Friday, the Department of Health signed the IRRs for Republic Act 10354, the new Reproductive Health Law of 2012. Health Secretary Enrique Ona said the signing of the IRRs in Baseco, Tondo will bolster the government's universal health care program. "The Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law will empower women, through informed choice and voluntarism, improve access to information, facilities and services, increased stability and sustainability of health policy across national and local government, institutionalize the partnerships between national and local governments, and recognize the important roles and contribution of civil society organizations, basic sectors, academe and private sector," Ona said. Among the items the IRRs touched on are: