National Youth Commission Calls for Action on Adolescent Pregnancy Through School-Based Teen Centers
The National Youth Commission (NYC) has taken a decisive step in addressing one of the most pressing youth issues in the Philippines by approving a resolution that urges Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials in Northern Mindanao to actively promote and support the establishment of school-based teen centers. This move aims to empower young Filipinos and tackle the region's alarmingly high rate of adolescent pregnancy.
Resolution Details and Legal Framework
The resolution was approved ad referendum on December 23, 2025, and was sponsored by NYC Chairperson and CEO Undersecretary Joseph Francisco “Jeff” R. Ortega. It is firmly anchored on Republic Act No. 8044, also known as the Youth in Nation-Building Act of 1995, which mandates the NYC to lead youth development policies and ensure meaningful participation of young people in issues affecting their welfare.
This resolution reinforces the NYC's commitment to safeguarding and empowering the youth, particularly in Region X (Northern Mindanao), where adolescent pregnancy remains a critical concern. By leveraging the SK's grassroots presence, the NYC seeks to create accessible platforms for youth engagement and support.
Addressing the Adolescent Pregnancy Crisis in Northern Mindanao
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reveals a stark reality in Northern Mindanao. Approximately 30 adolescents aged 15 to 19 give birth daily, while nearly six girls below 15 years old give birth each week. These figures represent the highest adolescent childbearing rate in the country, highlighting an urgent need for coordinated and immediate action.
In response to this crisis, President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” R. Marcos Jr. issued Presidential Directive PBBM No. 2025-1492 in April 2025, directing national and local government agencies to implement focused interventions addressing the root causes of adolescent pregnancy in the region. This directive is further supported by Executive Order (EO) No. 141, Series of 2021, which declared the prevention of teenage pregnancy a national priority and emphasized the crucial roles of both the NYC and the SK in reversing this trend.
Project 25@28 and Whole-of-Government Approach
The resolution builds on commitments made during the EO No. 141 Inter-Agency Technical Working Group Meeting held on November 21, 2025, where “Project 25@28: Reversing the Trend of Adolescent Pregnancy in Northern Mindanao” was presented. This initiative adopts a whole-of-government approach, identifying SK officials as key partners in mobilizing youth participation at the grassroots level.
By advocating for school-based teen centers, the NYC emphasizes the necessity of creating safe and accessible spaces where young people can receive accurate information, counseling, and support. These centers are envisioned not only as educational venues but as platforms that empower youth to make informed choices, thereby contributing to healthier communities.
Alignment with National Youth Development Plans
Aligned with the Philippine Youth Development Plan 2023–2028, the resolution underscores the importance of comprehensive sexuality education and responsive programming. Through Project 25@28, the NYC calls on Region 10’s SK officials to lead with purpose and compassion, placing the youth at the heart of solutions for a safer and more hopeful future.
The establishment of teen centers is seen as a proactive measure to provide young Filipinos with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate challenges related to reproductive health and overall well-being. This initiative represents a collaborative effort between government agencies and youth leaders to address a critical social issue head-on.
