Former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III has filed a bill seeking to institutionalize equal protection for the rights of mothers and their unborn children from conception until birth.
The proposed measure aims to strengthen policies that support maternal health, prenatal care, and child welfare.
Sotto said the bill reflects the government’s responsibility to protect both mothers and children through comprehensive health and social programs.
“The protection of both the mother and the unborn child should be a priority of the state,” Sotto said in previous remarks explaining the intent of similar proposals he had supported in the past.
Supporters of the measure argue that stronger maternal health programs can help reduce complications during pregnancy and improve infant health outcomes.
Health experts have long emphasized the importance of prenatal care, proper nutrition, and medical support for pregnant women.
Programs focused on maternal health are widely recognized as critical components of public health policy.
Advocates say strengthening such programs could help address preventable maternal and infant health risks.
The bill is expected to undergo committee hearings where lawmakers, medical experts, and advocacy groups will be invited to provide their perspectives.
As with many proposals related to reproductive health policy, the measure is expected to generate discussion among stakeholders with differing views.
The Senate will review the proposal as part of its legislative process before determining whether it should advance to further deliberation.