The Integrated Community-based Reproductive Health (RH) Project in the Province of Capiz (PHI/05/01/P17) under the UNFPA 5th Country Program, supported by the UN Human Security Fund, ended in December 2004.

From 19th to 26th November, Kei Yoshidome, Program Officer, JOICFP, visited Capiz to monitor the progress of institutionalization of RH projects into local government unit (LGU) programs.

Youth forum

On 21st November, the Capiz Youth Forum 2004 took place, with nearly 450 participants, including young people living in model project areas, health workers and youth facilitators.

The youth leaders, recognizing the need for self organization and commitment as the project ended, had organized an RH Circle to partner LGUs in promoting adolescent and sexual RH (ASRH) services.

Objectives of the RH circle include conducting community level information, education and communication (IEC) activities, training youth communicators, and promoting income-generating activities.

In a drama presented by a local theater group, a familiar traditional story was used as a vehicle to raise awareness of ASRH. This was a very effective way to get messages across to the audience.

Youth facilitators preparing for the RH extribution

Young women studying health information at the RH exhibition

Male assembly

On 24th November, the first Capiz RH Men's Assembly was held, organized by Male Motivators, with nearly 430 participants, as well as health workers and youth facilitators, who assisted in the event.

Men using the clinic services

Other activities included a participatory RH exhibition, ASRH counseling and clinic, and a song contest based around ASRH themes.

The male assembly leaders also wish to coordinate with LGUs to promote RH, recognizing the importance of men taking responsibility for this in the community.

This will be achieved through, for example, developing trainers, or RH Male Motivators, organizing male clubs and liaising with other municipalities.

A Male Motivator facilitates discussion on male RH topics

The male participants were addressed by a urologist specializing in male RH, who spoke on male-specific RH problems. This frank speech generated a surprisingly large number of questions from the audience, highlighting the need for male RH awareness.

The LGU was very supportive of the event, committing to assist the male assembly as it was able.

Governor Vicente B. Bermejo lends his support
to the male assembly

Both the events are examples of how the community people are enthusiastic to continue project activities even after it has ended.