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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Solon seeks regulation of Assisted Reproductive Technology, surrogacy in PH

Solon seeks regulation of Assisted Reproductive Technology, surrogacy in PH

Published May 23, 2023 11:11 pm
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A Mindanao lawmaker wants to institutionalize a framework for the conduct and regulation of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy procedures in the Philippines as a way to help couples with infertility problems. Zamboanga City 1st district Rep. Khymer Adan Olaso filed on Tuesday, May 23 House Bill (HB) No. 8301. “The enactment of an ART and surrogacy regulation law is necessary for the ethical and safe conduct of ART and surrogacy procedures in the Philippines. It is in the country’s best interest to create this law and ensure the protection of every individual's reproductive rights,” Olaso said in the explanatory note of his bill. “Should this bill becomes a law, individuals can have the option to receive ART or surrogacy services within the country without the risks of traveling abroad,” he said. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one out of 10 couples worldwide experience difficulty in conceiving. The Philippines does not have a comprehensive legal framework for ART and surrogacy. However, the Department of Health (DOH) released guidelines in 2010 that require ART clinics to obtain informed consent from patients and provide counselling and support services. It also mandated the registration and accreditation of ART clinics. Data from the Philippine Society of Reproductive Medicine (PSRM) showed that there were approximately 9,000 ART procedures conducted in the country in 2019. It also said that there were approximately 50 surrogacy arrangements in the Philippines in the same year. In his explanatory note, Olaso said that infertility affects a significant portion of the Filipino population, and that ART and surrogacy can provide hope for couples who are struggling to conceive. But he noted that "The lack of regulation for surrogacy and the ban on reproductive cell donation in the Philippines pose potential ethical and legal challenges.” The bill proposes regulations and guidelines for ART and surrogacy procedures using ethical practices and techniques that prioritize the well-being of all parties involved. It also aims to legally recognize and uphold the reproductive rights of individuals and couples who are looking to start families but are unable to do so on their own. Olaso also said that “regulating ART and surrogacy in the country would create more job opportunities, as well as provide a new sector in the healthcare industry. This new industry can create more revenue streams for the government and generate economic activity.”

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surrogacy Assisted Reproductive Technology
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