SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian is pushing for the complete removal of the Comprehensive Sexuality Education program implemented by the Department of Education under Department Order No. 31.

Gatchalian proposes replacing CSE with Reproductive Health Education, which he says aligns more closely with the intent of the Reproductive Health Law.

He argues that while the RH Law serves as the legal foundation for DepEd’s sex education programs, what was initially RH Education has since evolved into the broader and more complex CSE.

The senator believes RH Education is sufficient to equip students with essential knowledge about reproductive health without introducing concepts he deems unnecessary or inappropriate.

He emphasized that the RH Law already provides a framework for teaching reproductive health in schools, making a shift back to RH Education a logical step.

Gatchalian also expressed concerns that CSE allows teachers to use various reference materials, which may not always be appropriate for young learners. He contends that standardizing the curriculum under RH Education would eliminate confusion and ensure lessons remain age-appropriate.

As part of his proposal, he suggested revoking Department Order No. 31 and replacing it with a new directive that formally implements RH Education in schools.

He pointed out that RH Education has been taught for years, making it a more familiar and manageable approach for educators. Unlike CSE, which he describes as overly complex, RH Education is a straightforward framework that teachers are already trained to deliver effectively.

By eliminating CSE, Gatchalian believes DepEd can streamline sex education without overcomplicating the curriculum.

Another key concern he raised is the additional burden CSE places on teachers. He noted that many educators find it challenging due to its broad and sometimes controversial topics. In contrast, RH Education follows a clear structure that teachers have been accustomed to for years.