Amidst the ongoing implementation of programs of the Department of Health to guide teenagers in comprehensive reproductive education, cases of teenage pregnancy continue to rise, resulting in profound health and socio-economic consequences: poverty, limited access to health services, and out-of-school youth from impoverished families.
Driven by its commitment to empower young women and continue to bring comprehensive health and reproductive education through community-based approach, the students of the Master in Nursing and Master of Arts in Nursing of Ateneo de Naga University, under the supervision of Dr. France T. Caayao, MAN, conducted the seminar “Matalinong Pagpili: A Seminar in Teen Pregnancy and Empowerment Through Comprehensive Reproductive Education.” held on November 29, 2025, at the ALS Room, Barangay Hall in Cararayan, Naga City.
The seminar focused on education about teenage pregnancy with the theme “Empowerment Through Comprehensive Reproductive Education.” It provides education about the vital role of a mother in the family, the importance of regular maternity check-ups, teaching about the risks of early pregnancy, and promoting community involvement in strengthening health education.
The activity was successful through the cooperation of the Alternative Learning System (ALS), headed by Gil SB. Depositario, PhD, the Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), Barangay Officials headed by Punong Barangay Rodrigo B. Agravante Jr., and the teenage mothers residing in the said barangay.
The program started with an opening remarks given by Mr. Kenyon Wayne G. Fortuno, RN, which emphasizes the value of being well-informed with the vital role of a mother’s welfare in a society. Mr. Fortuno also added that it is with utmost importance that all the knowledge the participants will acquire about health safety and promotion must be shared and practiced to further help their community.
Following the opening remarks, a substantial and comprehensive discussion led by Ms. Jinky N. Noblefranca, RN, addressed the various aspects and struggles of having a child at such a young age. Ms. Noblefranca emphasized that achieving their dreams with the help of ALS and the DOH programs is still possible. Further, in her discussion, she added that the significance of regular checkups, having adequate nutrition for both mother and child, vaccination, and family support should be practiced with utmost importance.
The event concluded with an open forum, sharing of experiences, and awarding of certificates and the token of appreciation to the participants and the Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), facilitated by Dr. France T. Caayao, MAN, and the course professor in NSG 708. The conduct of this event demonstrates how collective efforts contribute to creating a change in a community. Further, progress must first be made by transforming the community through education and awareness. As the country continues to grapple with the health concern of teenage pregnancy, a concrete health plan by the government and a whole-of-society approach must be prioritized to achieve change through transformative community action.
Prepared by:
Kenyon Wayne G. Fortuno, RN
Master of Arts in Nursing
Ateneo de Naga University
