#MINDANAO
Recent discussions over Senate Bill 1979, otherwise known as the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy Act of 2023 have surprised many, including myself, at the vigilance of some sectors who expressed their concern over certain aspects of the bill, and the resulting exchanges. Those opposing the measure point to aspects such as promoting a type of sexuality education they find disagreeable. The Jan. 17 explainer article by Dhel Nazario (https://mb.com.ph/2025/1/17/what-s-the-fuss-about-the-adolescent-pregnancy-prevention-bill) lays out the points raised by those for and against.
It seems to me, however, that as the concepts and other features of SB 1979 will be examined further, the debate on this proposed measure will continue to rage, drawing more sectors into the discussion, parsing the fine points of the specifics, and examining the possible outcomes. At any rate, I do not think that this is a bad thing. On the contrary, I believe that broad public discussion and debate over proposed legislative measures is necessary and healthy for a democracy. We need the perspectives of all affected and those potentially involved if the proposed legislation becomes law.
That said, the legislative process in a democracy demands that we all participate in making our views known, from the initial filing of the bills and committee hearings to enable broad public participation to the possible bicameral conference committee deliberations. The opportunity to participate in, or at least listen to these discussions is facilitated by the fact that these are broadcast on social media. Decades ago one would have to go to Congress to listen to these hearings and debates.
This broad public participation is vital because most laws and their manner of implementation affect many of us in the long run. Democracy requires reasoned debate toward the crafting of new laws, or the review and amendment of current ones.
For those in regions like me, vigilance will be needed in monitoring proposed legislation that promotes the nation’s continued growth, particularly in local economies where we operate. Priority legislation must therefore be focused on lowering the costs of living, lessening business risks, promoting food production and security, and upholding the rights and participation of a greater number in entrepreneurship and trade.
Important legislative measures must also be in place to monitor the delivery of public services, local economic stability, and the strength and welfare of families and communities, among many others.
The legislative process in Congress is the foremost arena where discussions on the future of the country and our people are held. More than at any other time in our history, and with the realities we need to face as a nation, we must take part by making our positions on proposed laws known.
Brace for impact on fuel prices
As of this writing, we are expecting a large jump in fuel prices will hit many of us. How this will impact food prices, and eventually, transport costs will need to be monitored by everyone. The continued conflicts in the Ukraine and the Middle East will affect oil prices, and high fuel costs will likely accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and increase the usage of urban mass transport. Moving forward, I believe it will be vital for many of us to examine the plans to create more mass transport systems in the cities we live in. Internal mobility within urban areas affects commerce and the cost of living.