RH law author offered Cabinet post

ONE of the authors of the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) law in the House of Representatives will be given a Cabinet position after the May elections, President Benigno Aquino III said Thursday.

"Thank you, (Iloilo) Congresswoman Janette Garin. Malapit na po namin ito i-recruit sa Executive (branch)," President Benigno Aquino III said in his speech during the inaguration of the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project Stage 2 in Iloilo City.

Garin, whose term ends on June 30, authored then House Bill 4244 or the RH bill. The measure was signed into law by President Aquino in December last year.

In an interview with reporters, Garin said she was offered by President Aquino to oversee the implementation of the RH law.

"I'm very flattered that the President recognizes my work. I really didn't expect that he will take notice. It is a compliment. I hope I will be up to it and help the administration," Garin, a medical doctor, said.

The lawmaker won't say if she will join the Department of Health or the Department of Social Welfare and Development, which play key roles in the distribution of RH services across the country.

Garin said there are still challenges that confront the implementation of the RH law, especially in the local government units.

"We have to step up our efforts in making them realize that these fears are not the truth, that the RH law will have a huge impact for the betterment of our younger generation's health and education," she said.

The law's constitutionality is also being challenged by eight groups before the Supreme Court. (Kathrina Alvarez/Sunnex)