The first legal challenge to the Reproductive Health Law was filed by a Catholic couple last Wednesday by lawyer James Imbong and his wife, who alleged that the law was unconstitutional. Representing the couple is Imbong’s mother Jo, who is also the lawyer for the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). The law will take into effect on Jan. 17, and the Supreme Court has not given notice that it will hear any legal challenge before then.
According to Jo Imbong, the RH law “corrupts Philippine culture.” She also added that “the law overstepped its powers” and that “the state has no business entering the bedroom.”
The RH Law and other legislation for educating the citizens about sexual and reproductive health has been pending in Congress for more than a decade. During that time, the CBCP has been actively lobbying and using their power against it becoming a law.
Nevertheless, majority of Filipinos have consistently supported a law for “responsible parenthood,” Interaksyon.com reported.
