CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — More young women in MIMAROPA are facing early pregnancy, with 8.2 percent of girls aged 15 to 19 having experienced pregnancy, according to the latest findings of the 2025 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS).
The results were presented by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-MIMAROPA during a Regional Data Dissemination Forum and Press Conference held at Mahalta Resorts and Convention Center.
PSA-MIMAROPA Regional Director Leni R. Rioflorido explained that the 2025 NDHS is the 13th nationwide demographic and health survey conducted in the Philippines since 1968. It is also the first midterm survey that will now be conducted every three years, providing more up-to-date information on key health and population trends.
The NDHS gathers data on topics that directly affect Filipino families and young people, including health, family planning, fertility, and reproductive health. The information helps government agencies create programs that respond to real-life challenges faced by communities.
According to the survey, MIMAROPA is among the regions with the highest teenage pregnancy rates in the country. It also found that 3.1 percent of girls aged 15 to 19 were pregnant at the time they were interviewed.
Among all regions, the Zamboanga Peninsula recorded the highest teenage pregnancy rate at 9.3 percent, while SOCCSKSARGEN and MIMAROPA followed at 8.2 percent.
Health experts continue to stress that teenage pregnancy can affect a young person’s education, career opportunities, financial stability, and overall well-being. Early pregnancy may also pose health risks for both mothers and babies.
The survey also showed that women in MIMAROPA have an average Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.1 children. This means that if current trends continue, a woman is expected to have about two children during her reproductive years.
When asked about family plans, more than half or 56.9 percent of currently married women aged 15 to 49 said they no longer wanted additional children. Meanwhile, 14.7 percent preferred to wait at least two years before having another child, while 10.9 percent wanted to have another child within the next two years.
Government agencies are expected to use the survey findings to strengthen programs focused on adolescent health, reproductive education, family planning, maternal care, and youth development.
Representatives from the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Commission on Population and Development (CPD), and other government agencies attended the forum and discussed how the data can help shape future policies and programs for young people and families in the region.
The findings highlight the importance of providing teenagers with access to accurate health information, guidance, and support systems that can help them make informed decisions about their future.
