MANILA Sixth District Representative Bienvenido ‘Benny’ Abante Jr. has called the Department of Education’s Department Order No. 31 on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) unconstitutional.

During the House Committee on Basic Education hearing, Abante expressed strong opposition to the policy, stating he would take the matter to the Supreme Court if its implementation continues.

Abante emphasized that all educational materials and curricula must align with the Constitution and uphold moral values to safeguard the youth.

He argued that CSE, as outlined in DO No. 31, might violate these principles, warranting further scrutiny from Congress and the courts.

Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo, committee chairman, also questioned DepEd officials about the origins of DO No. 31. He accused the department of misleading the public by pushing for CSE implementation without transparency.

Romulo criticized the inclusion of sensitive topics, such as intimacy and reproduction, for young students, particularly in Kindergarten to Grade 3.

While supporting efforts to address teenage pregnancy, Romulo expressed concerns about exposing young children to topics he deemed inappropriate for their age group.

Both lawmakers urged DepEd to reconsider its approach to teaching sexuality education, ensuring it aligns with Filipino cultural and moral values.

Abante reiterated his commitment to challenging the policy if necessary, ensuring it meets constitutional and ethical standards.