MANILA, Philippines - A lawmaker is calling for the electrification of some 30,000 sitios (territorial enclaves that form part of a barangay) in the country, saying that this may help curb problems of overpopulation.

According to Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento, having access to electrical appliances such as televisions and radios will keep Filipinos busy, giving them less time for intimacy and lovemaking.

Sarmiento made the statement as the government plans to spend millions of pesos for contraceptives such as condoms, cycle beads and birth control pills next year.

"Instead of spending funds for condoms, contraceptives and injectibles, the money can be used for the electrification of the non-energized sitios so the population will not grow faster and keep the people active and busy," Sarmiento said in a statement.

He continued, "It's different and much better when the place is energized, children can do their homework and study better and couples, instead of retiring early at night, can still work and earn a living or bond with their children."

Another lawmaker, Rep. Amelita Villarosa of Occidental Mindoro, shared Sarmiento's sentiment. She initiated a resolution signed by all members of the Committee on Energy that endorses the funding of the National Electrification Administration's (NEA) rural electrification project.

"Let us help NEA so that every dark area in the country will be lighted through the electrification program. Because when it's dark, things happen," Villarosa said.

The Reproductive Health (RH) Bill, which promotes information on and access to both natural and modern family methods, has been a contentious issue in the Philippines, which is a predominantly Catholic country.

While RH Bill advocates say it will promote sustainable human development and help reduce poverty, critics argue that the policy is unconstitutional since it steps on the rights of the unborn child.