Abstract
The Pope is concerned with welfare and health of all people. 5 out of 6 people known to be infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Philippines are hospitality workers connected to US military bases. Catholic teaching on contraceptive methods should not be equated with a response to AIDS epidemic. Monsignore Caffara has very specific views on use of condoms but he does not speak for church. Condoms are not the only public health method proved to limit spread of AIDS. Condoms fail. 52% of condom users in Manchester had experienced bursting or slipping off. 46% of Oxford women who responded to a survey of contraceptive practices reported using a condom as their normal contraceptive method. 24% reported always using a condom during intercourse. Therefore effectiveness of condoms in preventing AIDS is questioned. Objections to contraceptive use in developing countries are not always religious. Many cultural groups do not accept condoms or other contraceptives. The most powerful public health method limiting spread of AIDS is education. The only sure way to prevent AIDS is by changing behavior. Natural family planning has been supported by Philippines government since 1984. Organizers of community-based delivery system for natural family planning in rural Philippines are planning to have 15000 fertility educators in remote areas in next 3 to 5 years. The Roman Catholic Church is committed to genuine development based on its belief in equality and dignity of every human being.
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