MANILA, Philippines – The Church’s call for civil disobedience would not succeed against the reproductive health (RH) measure which is being prioritized for passage before the House of Representatives goes on recess for Holy Week on March 26, according to party-list representatives supporting the measure. Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello said that the leaders of the Catholic Church court a major setback and severe humiliation should they initiate civil disobedience and other desperate plans against the RH measure if it is signed into law this year.
“I doubt if they will get any support in the streets. People can no longer be fooled by the bishops' arguments against RH. I dare them to call for street protests. This is all desperation and bluster,” said Bello, one of the proponents of the controversial bill.
Bello’s fellow representative in the party-list, Rep. Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao, also expressed strong confidence that the RH bill, which would provide informed choice among couples about how to plan their family, will be passed before the year ends.
“I respect their right to dissent but it is our duty as legislators to pass the RH bill, which is long overdue. Civil disobedience only works when a huge section of the populace agrees with your position and is willing to actively participate in your collective actions,” Bag-ao said.
“In the case of the RH bill, I am very confident that a huge majority of our people are behind its enactment,” she said.
Meanwhile, Gabriela Women’s Party Reps. Luzviminda Ilagan and Emmi de Jesus said that the call for disobedience of Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes and Batangas Archbishop Ramon Arguelles would result to no good.
Ria Rose Ribaya, Manila Bulletin
