Abortion in the city

The word war between the Federation of the Barangay Health Workers and the Dagupan City Police Station on reported abortion cases in the city is one of the few that can be said to have resulted in something positive. There is more awareness today about the dangers and risks to lives of women and to the moral aspect of the illegal activity.

We leave it to the Church hierarchy and other religious sects to dwell on the moral and spiritual aspects of the issue, suffice it to say that the Constitution is one with the Church on abortion. There is unanimity in condemning the killing of fetus.

To combat this social and health menace, it is important that we understand the two main peripheral issues that make abortion seemingly imperative for some women (and their husbands or partners). It is no secret that abortion is resorted by indigent couples that feel their impoverished state could no longer afford another addition to the family. It’s for economic reasons. The other is about women who feel shamed by the circumstances that led to the pregnancy, i.e., teenaged pregnancy, pregnancy out of wedlock, incest relationship, rape and prostitution. It’s about social and community standing.

These realities and circumstances are covered by government programs or protected by law. Unfortunately, poverty alleviation, for instance, owing to its complication, is one issue that most if not all of our political and government leaders are wont to pay lip service to. Even the fate of the congressional bill on reproductive health hangs in the balance as legislators, Church leaders, non-government organizations and advocacy groups debate the issue, simply repeating rehashed issues for their endless debates. Meanwhile, abortion is becoming the only alternative to many women and mothers in distress.

So more than attempting to resolve the contentious legal and moral issues, both government and the religious sectors should finally join hands to protect the unborn and the women in the real world.

Women with unwanted pregnancies have immediate emotional and financial needs that can be addressed without going through the legislation mill. Government and Church can collaborate to fund and operate institutions for would-be single mothers who are considering giving up their babies for adoption.

Secondly, an intensive information campaign as suggested by the Dagupan City Council on the legal liabilities of both the abortionist and the “patient” would help put a reality check on both. Most would fear incarceration on earth today than eternal damnation tomorrow.

But beyond understanding the legal nuances and moral impact of abortion, the community should give women the reality check that, yes, abortion can abort the life of an otherwise healthy mother as well!

Back to Homepage

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments