Assessing Educational and Advocacy Needs on HIV/AIDS and Unwanted Pregnancy among Learners in Selected Schools in the DepEd Division of Northern Samar
Ena Rose J. Barojabo
*
Social Science Department, College of Arts and Communication Graduate Studies, University of Eastern Philippines, University Town, Northern Samar, Philippines.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Pregnancy in young women, also known as “teenage pregnancy”, is a global issue that poses a significant threat to the health and welfare of the population. Teenage pregnancy is often a consequence of health and education inequality between young parents and their children. Pregnancy during adolescence poses significant challenges to the affected teenagers, including economic and social status deterioration, partner abandonment, school dropout, and threats of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to assess the needs of adolescents in relation to sexual and reproductive health within the program “Empowered Choices: Educate, Advocate, and Campaign on HIV/AIDS and Unwanted Pregnancy”. It sought to increase awareness of sexual and reproductive health, promote access to youth-friendly services, encourage gender equality and empowerment, and contribute to reducing teenage pregnancy among school-based youth. A descriptive research design was employed to examine adolescents’ knowledge, perceptions, and access to services related to HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancy. The study was conducted in selected Junior and Senior High Schools in the Division of Northern Samar during the last quarter of School Year 2024–2025. Frequency counts were utilized to analyze response patterns. The respondents consisted of Junior and Senior High School students, with 25 participants (20.1%) aged 18 years and above. Data were collected on students’ demographic profile, level of knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancy, awareness of modes of transmission and prevention, preventive practices, and perceptions of associated risks. Results revealed a diverse respondent profile, predominantly female and largely composed of students aged 15 to 17 years, with the majority enrolled in Senior High School. Awareness of HIV/AIDS was mixed while many had heard of the disease, significant gaps existed in understanding transmission and prevention. Awareness of unwanted pregnancy was similarly high, yet knowledge of preventive methods was often incomplete. Students expressed uncertainty about risks within their communities and indicated a need for comprehensive sex education, access to contraceptives, counseling services, and community-driven initiatives. The study concludes that adolescents face considerable informational and service access gaps related to sexual and reproductive health. Implementing age-appropriate, inclusive, and comprehensive strategies that integrate education, healthcare access, and community engagement is essential. Schools must also establish formal referral pathways to nearby health facilities to ensure students’ access to confidential counseling, contraceptive services, and reproductive health support. Additionally, stakeholders, including parents, barangay officials, and youth organizations, should engaged in sustained awareness initiatives to create supportive environment that reinforces informed decision-making and promotes the overall well-being of adolescents.
Keywords: Teenager, early pregnancy, human immunodeficiency virus, education