BY AMANDA GUMILA

I am Amanda Gumila (amanduh_999@yahoo.com), a 2nd year college student. This is my opinion regarding the overpopulation crisis our country is currently experiencing.

One does not need to be presented with results of scientific studies or with complicated statistical data in order to realize that the Philippines is already overpopulated. A simple ride at overcrowded LRT trains, or a mere look at the number of people who are unemployed, already bring out such fact.

Overpopulation has numerous detrimental consequences, mainly to the environment and to the society. Nature is finite, and therefore, can only support a limited number of individuals. Natural resources like food, water, and even energy are slowly running out because of the increasing consumption rate. On the other hand, the number of garbage people are producing is escalating, which leads to land, air, and water pollution. The overpopulation crisis also gives way to shortage of jobs, supplies and space.

The problem of overpopulation must therefore be addressed urgently. The government should provide information about birth control methods and about the damaging effects of overpopulation, especially to those in the lower class area of society. Family planning might be contrary to the stand of the Catholic Church, but the Church should be separated from the state. Like the Church, the government should also make citizens aware of their stand regarding birth control. The public should have enough information regarding the stands of both sides, and who they decide to follow is already up to them.

July 23, 2006

Posted by Bulatlat

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