Romblon capitol rolls out reproductive health policy for workers

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Romblon has enacted a comprehensive reproductive health and wellness program for all provincial government employees, according to its social media post on Thursday.

Enacted on October 9 during the board’s 35th Regular Session, Provincial Ordinance No. 24, Series of 2026 mandates institutional access to reproductive health education, preventive screening, counseling, and reasonable workplace support across provincial government offices.

Board Member Rubelyn S. Solis authored the measure, which covers key health areas including maternal and prenatal care, family planning, menopausal and menstrual health support, screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and early detection for breast and reproductive-system cancers.

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READ: Calabarzon health workers train to expand family planning access

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Under the ordinance, the Human Resource Management Division (HRMD) and the Provincial Health Office (PHO) must hold mandatory information sessions at least once a year and establish a confidential referral system for employees seeking specialized medical services or psychosocial support.

The legislation also strictly prohibits workplace discrimination based on sex, pregnancy, marital status, or reproductive health conditions. Likewise, it bars coercion regarding health choices or unauthorized disclosure of confidential health records, citing compliance with Republic Act No. 10173 (the Data Privacy Act of 2012).

Officials will provide funds for the program in the annual budgets of relevant provincial offices, including the Gender and Development (GAD) and HRMD units. Implementing rules and regulations (IRR) are set to be formulated within 60 days.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan Secretary Niña M. Mindo certified the ordinance; Vice Gov. Armando M. Gutierrez and Gov. Trina Alejandra Q. Firmalo-Fabic attested and approved it, respectively./coa