Philippines reallows contraceptive devices after certifying them safe

[November 16, 2017] MANILA (Reuters) - The Roman Catholic-majority Philippines will reallow the use of contraceptive implants after certifying 51 drugs and devices safe and not the cause of abortions, the health department announced on Thursday.

Congress passed a law allowing contraceptive devices in 2012 but the Supreme Court imposed a restraining order in 2015 after bishops said some drugs and devices caused abortions.

Abortion, divorce and same-sex union are not allowed in the Philippines and some lawmakers oppose artificial methods of family planning. Pills and condoms are sold freely.

"With the Food and Drug Administration's issuance of an advisory declaring all of the 51 contraceptive products ... cannot cause abortion, it is now all systems go for the Department of Health to fully implement the law," Health Secretary Francisco Duque told reporters.

(Reporting by Manuel Mogato; Editing by Nick Macfie)

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