Teen Pregnancy Rates Drop, Thanks to Youth Leadership

A UN-backed initiative is showing strong results in reducing adolescent pregnancies in the Philippines, by empowering young people to take part in local decision-making.

“Today, we see local governments not only stepping up with stronger policies but also increasing their budgets year after year,” said Austere Panadero, Executive Director of the Zuellig Family Foundation, a key UNFPA partner.

Through the Expanded Youth Leadership and Governance Programme (EYGLP), adolescent birth rates have fallen by up to 29% in pilot areas, while contraceptive use and health funding have risen sharply. Local budgets for youth health are now approaching ₱50 million, proving that youth-led governance and sustained investment can deliver lasting change for future generations.