Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 24) – The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) reminds Filipino couples on Tuesday to exercise responsible parenthood and family planning as the country faces the COVID-19 pandemic.

Couples and families should remain at home during the enhanced community quarantine to encourage dialogue among them and share responsibilities at home.

POPCOM Executive Director Usec. Juan Antonio Perez III assures couples and families the provision of basic family planning services in local communities, despite the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine, to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

“We are uncertain as to when the health emergency caused by COVID-19 will abate. As such, we do not want to add on to the current situation with another possible crisis caused by unplanned pregnancies, as they could bear added weight to our already strained medical institutions,” said Perez in a statement.

Perez noted there is always an increase in unplanned pregnancies during natural calamities, when couples and families cohabitate for longer periods.

“We therefore call on couples and individuals to keep in mind family planning as they try to maintain their overall health and well-being inside their respective homes during these trying times,” added Perez.

The commission continues to work on family planning services by reaching out to households and social media accounts.

POPCOM also encourages local government units to tap barangay population volunteers, who will help educate communities about COVID-19 and provide family planning supplies such as pills and condoms that will be good for three months.

The Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine due to the COVID-19 threat will last up to April 13.

As of this writing, the Philippines has confirmed 552 COVID-19 cases along with 35 deaths and 20 recoveries.