HOUSE Committee on Basic Education and Culture Chairman and Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo has pledged to strictly exercise the congressional oversight function on the proposed Comprehensive Sexuality Education.

Romulo emphasized the importance of ensuring that any future CSE law aligns with national values and the welfare of Filipino students.

During a recent briefing at the House of Representatives, Romulo clarified that Congress has yet to approve a law specific to CSE.

This was confirmed by Department of Education Assistant Secretary Jerome Buenviaje, who stated that no formal legislation has been passed to institutionalize CSE in the country’s educational system.

However, Buenviaje noted that elements of sexual education are already integrated into the existing curriculum under DepEd Order No. 31, series of 2018.

This directive, he explained, was formulated in line with the Reproductive Health Law of 2012, providing guidelines for age-appropriate discussions on reproductive health and related topics in schools.

The issue of CSE has stirred controversy despite the lack of a specific law.

Various groups, particularly from the Catholic and Islamic communities, have expressed strong opposition, arguing that the proposed curriculum contradicts their religious teachings and moral beliefs.

This resistance has made CSE a highly debated topic in educational and legislative circles.

In the Senate, a counterpart measure similar to the CSE proposal is being pushed through Senate Bill No. 1979.

Proponents argue that comprehensive sexuality education is crucial in equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health and relationships.

As discussions around CSE continue, Romulo assured the public that the oversight functions of Congress would be fully utilized to guarantee transparency, accountability, and adherence to cultural and moral standards.