Equity in Enhancing Family Planning Access in Rural Municipalities of the Philippines

Authors

Jean Rachel D. Ang, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, PhilippinesFollow
Meljun R. Banogon, Health Futures Foundation, Inc., Quezon City, Philippines
Teodoro Lloydon C. Bautista, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines
Wendy D. Besa-ang, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines
Macario A. Felicen II, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines
Jovine M. Martin, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines
Hermie Alexander D. Sia, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines
Jaeron Den D. Topinio, Ateneo School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines

Abstract

Fertility trends in the Philippines have decreased over the years, driven by improved implementation of family planning (FP) practices and programs. However, regional and urban-rural disparities remain evident. Based on the 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), the general fertility rate (GFR) in urban areas is 57 per 1,000 women aged 15–44 years, compared with 72 per 1,000 in rural areas. This study determined the factors affecting fertility rates in selected municipalities in the second to fourth-income classes, namely Candoni, Jamindan, Moalboal, Palapag, San Miguel, and Sibalom. It utilized a descriptive cross-sectional study design involving 180 women of reproductive age (WRA) (18-49 years). Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, FP use, and influencing factors, and analysis was done using Epi Info 7. The contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) was 68.9%, with pills (46.8%) and injectables (30.7%) being the most used methods. Availability was the key convincing factor among 40% of contraceptive users, while 48.2% of non-users cited fear of side effects. Bivariate analysis showed no significant difference in FP use across income levels. In conclusion, low education and unemployment persist in rural areas, exacerbating urban-rural disparities in fertility rates and FP. This underscores the urgent need to refine the quality of sexual and reproductive health services through multisectoral collaboration, targeted capacity-building initiatives, and strengthening FP literacy, particularly in rural areas.

Recommended Citation

Ang, Jean Rachel D.; Banogon, Meljun R.; Bautista, Teodoro Lloydon C.; Besa-ang, Wendy D.; Felicen II, Macario A.; Martin, Jovine M.; Sia, Hermie Alexander D.; and Topinio, Jaeron Den D. (2026) "Equity in Enhancing Family Planning Access in Rural Municipalities of the Philippines," Journal of Public Affairs and Development: Vol. 11: No. 1, Article 1.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/jpad/vol11/iss1/1