Safe or Sorry? Understanding How Senior High School Students Make Sense of Sexual and Reproductive Health: A Qualitative Study

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

• Alexa Denisse M. Canoy, De La Salle University Integrated School (Manila)Follow
• Rauna Celine C. Ereve, De La Salle University Integrated School (Manila)Follow
• Ingrid Beatriz I. Del Rosario, De La Salle University Integrated School (Manila)Follow
• Martina Alicia D. Guevara, De La Salle University Integrated School (Manila)Follow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Gender, Human Development, and the Individual (GHI)

School Name

De La Salle University Integrated School (Manila)

Track or Strand

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Joseph S. Cadelina

Start Date

23-6-2026 3:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2026 5:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

DLSU Manila Campus (In-person) - Philippe Jones Lhullier Conference Room, 14th floor, Henry Sy Building

Abstract/Executive Summary

Adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a growing global and national concern, especially in the Philippines, where rising HIV cases and inconsistent sex education expose critical gaps in youth awareness. Despite mandates under the Reproductive Health Law, many Filipino students lack accurate, comprehensive, and culturally relevant SRH knowledge, often turning to unreliable online sources. This study aims to explore how Senior High School students construct and negotiate their understanding of SRH within their everyday lives. Using mini focus group discussions (FGDs) complemented by follow-up individual interviews, the research investigates how peers, family, teachers, and digital media shape students’ knowledge, comfort, and decision-making. Findings reveal varied understandings of SRH, struggles with stigma and taboo, reliance on online sources, as well as the gaps in school-based education. By analyzing these findings, the study highlights the need for more comprehensive, youth-friendly SRH education that encourages open discussion and creates supportive environments for Filipino adolescents.

Keywords

Adolescents; Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP); Sexual and Reproductive Health; Senior High School Students

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes