Manila, March 24 -- The Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) on Tuesday called for the urgent passage of legislation addressing adolescent pregnancy and advancing gender equality, citing a "national social emergency" that continues to affect young Filipino girls.

In a news release, the PLCPD highlighted the alarming reality of early childbirth in the country, noting a documented case of an eight-year-old girl who gave birth at 9 years old.

"No girl deserves this. All of us adults in this room, especially the duty bearers, should not let this situation continue," PLCPD Executive Director Au Quilala said.

She said adolescent pregnancy remains a significant public health and development concern, as child...