CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Calabarzon region recorded the lowest total fertility rate among the 18 regions in the country, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Calabarzon during the presentation of the 2025 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) on Thursday, May 14.
Results of the 2025 NDHS showed that women aged 15 to 49 years old in the region are expected to bear an average of 1.3 children in their lifetime, lower than the 1.8 recorded in 2022.
The total fertility rate refers to the average number of children a woman would have during her reproductive years based on current fertility patterns.
PSA Calabarzon Regional Director Charito Armonia said the continued decline in fertility rates in the region may be attributed to several factors, including increased access to education, efficient family planning services, and changing economic and social priorities among Filipino families.
She noted that demographic data gathered through the NDHS serves as an important guide for policymakers and government agencies in crafting programs related to health, population management, maternal care, and social protection.
“The dissemination of NDHS results is important to ensure that stakeholders and policymakers are equipped with updated and reliable data that will help them formulate responsive programs for the population,” Armonia said.
Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Calabarzon regional director Marilyn Ogaya, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of strengthening reproductive health education and ensuring access to family planning services, especially among young people and vulnerable sectors.
“These results show that CALABARZON is making significant strides in population and development. However, our work continues, especially in ensuring that no adolescent is left behind and that every family has access to informed choices,” Ogaya said.
She noted that the declining fertility rate reflects the sustained efforts of government agencies, local government units, and partner organizations in strengthening reproductive health programs, responsible parenthood advocacy, and access to family planning services across the region.
Ogaya added, “To all our colleagues in Calabarzon, this result shows what we have accomplished and our hard work. Congratulations to all of us, and let us continue and sustain these gains.”
The NDHS is a nationwide survey conducted by the PSA to gather data on fertility, family planning, maternal and child health, nutrition, mortality, and other key demographic indicators.
The PSA said the NDHS findings will help national and local government agencies assess current population trends and develop evidence-based interventions to improve the overall well-being of Filipino families. (AM/PIA CALABARZON)
