THE Davao City Health Office (CHO), through its Population Program Office, continues to ramp up its advocacy for vasectomy—a permanent contraceptive method for men—by highlighting male responsibility in family planning.
As of June 13, 2025, a total of 115 men have undergone vasectomy in Davao City, already nearing last year’s total of 126 procedures. The rising figures reflect a steady increase in male participation in reproductive health initiatives.
CHO, through its Population Program Office, continues to ramp up its advocacy for vasectomy—a permanent contraceptive method for men—by highlighting male responsibility in family planning.
As of June 13, 2025, a total of 115 men have undergone vasectomy in Davao City, already nearing last year’s total of 126 procedures. The rising figures reflect a steady increase in male participation in reproductive health initiatives.
“Nagsugod atong programa since 2008 pa, pero karon pa nato makita iyang bunga nga naga accept na ang kalalakin-an sa family planning. Karon daghan na ang laki nga empowered pud ug modawat og family planning and responsibility (Our program started back in 2008, but it's only now that we're seeing its results men are now starting to accept family planning. Today, many men are also empowered and willing to take on family planning and responsibility),” said Justice Mindanao Rasgo, Population Program Officer II, during the ISpeak media forum on Thursday morning, June 26, 2025, at the City Mayor’s Office.
Of the 115 recorded clients this year, 95 were Davao City residents, 18 came from outside the city, and two were foreigners. Rasgo credited the rise to stronger health awareness, social media influence, and positive word-of-mouth from satisfied clients.
Before undergoing the procedure, clients receive pre- and post-operation counseling to ensure they are fully informed about the vasectomy and its long-term effects.
“The youngest client we’ve had was 18 years old, while one of the oldest was in his 60s—he opted for a vasectomy after remarrying,” Rasgo shared.
When asked about financial support, Rasgo confirmed that assistance is available, but interested individuals must first undergo screening through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO). Once approved, the CHO schedules the procedure in coordination with local health centers.
In addition to city-wide campaigns, the CHO is also reaching out to far-flung and indigenous communities, including the Paquibato District and neighboring barangays. Population Program Officers assigned to these areas provide culturally sensitive education about family planning, including both vasectomy and tubal ligation.
One sign of the program’s reach is the case of seven men from Barangay Salapawan who previously availed of vasectomy, proof that the message is making its way into rural communities.
Rasgo added that the CHO continues to work with barangays and health districts to expand education efforts—especially encouraging men to take the lead when their partners face health risks from pregnancy. Eyas Boncait, CMU Intern