In 1999, the population of the Philippines stood at 65 million. In 2018, it stands at 106 million. Efforts to curb the population crisis are in motion; health workers travel to rural areas of the country to teach women about contraceptive methods. Yet these efforts face their own problems. The influence of the Catholic Church means many women are still fearful of using contraception, and many criticise the efforts as a convenient short term solution, advocating instead for the education and empowerment of women. ABC Australia speaks to government ministers, health workers and locals on the issue.

Produced by ABC Australia