Family planning deserve attention far beyond their annual observances. Even after August’s Family Planning Month, Organon continues to drive its mission: empowering every woman, regardless of circumstance, to protect her health and shape her life with confidence.
Rooted in its purpose of creating a better and healthier every day for every woman, Organon is taking action to help address one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges: the high rate of unplanned pregnancies, particularly among teenagers.
Empowerment Through Choice
At the heart of Organon’s work is the belief that when women are given the power to plan if and when to have children, they are better able to pursue education, participate in the workforce, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
“Empowering women to plan their futures starts with giving them real choices through access, education, and support,” said Carole Lopez, Organon External Affairs & Communications Lead. “Family planning isn’t just a medical service; it’s a foundational right that enables women to take charge of their lives.”
Beyond its physical health benefits, family planning can also help address some of the underlying socio-economic and societal pressures that contribute to poor mental health among women of reproductive age. Studies show that anxiety and depression are prevalent among Filipino women, with economic hardship, lack of social support, and gender-based expectations being key contributing factors. By allowing women to make informed reproductive choices, family planning can help reduce these pressures, providing them with greater control, stability, and peace of mind.
As Dr. Yolanda E. Oliveros, former Deputy Health Director at USAID/Philippines, emphasized: “Women’s mental health is shaped not only by biological factors but also by the economic realities and cultural expectations they face. Helping women make thoughtful decisions about the timing and size of their families can reduce stress and promotemental well-being.When women are supported in planning their families according to their needs and circumstances, they can better care for themselves and those they love.”
Confronting the Teenage Pregnancy Crisis
In the Philippines, teenage pregnancy remains a significant concern. Over 150,000 adolescent girls became pregnant or gave birth in 2022 alone, according to the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom). These early pregnancies often derail girls’ aspirations and deepen cycles of poverty and inequality.
Organon believes that prevention begins with education and access. Through programs like Her Plan is Her Powerand Nanay’s Day Out, the company promotes awareness of reproductive health while working alongside local governments to provide age-appropriate, youth-friendly family planning services.
“We cannot talk about women’s empowerment without addressing the realities that young girls face,” Lopez added. “Teenage pregnancy is not just a health issue, it’s a social issue. We are committed to being part of the solution by making sure that girls are informed, protected, and given the opportunity to thrive.”
Building Partnerships, Fueling Progress
Organon’s vision for family planning extends beyond products. It is about creating an ecosystem where women’s health is prioritized through stronger policies, data-driven solutions, and the representation of women’s voices in health decision-making.
By collaborating with healthcare professionals, community leaders, and policymakers, Organon is helping create an environment where family planning is not a privilege but a standard of care–one that promotes both physical and mental well-being.
“Every woman deserves the right to make informed choices about her body and her future,” Lopez said. “At Organon, we see ourselves not just as providers of health solutions, but as partners in her journey toward empowerment.”
