Television host Drew Arellano has earned praise from the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) for his decision to undergo a vasectomy—an act the agency hailed as a step toward responsible parenthood and male involvement in family planning.
In a Facebook post, the CPD lauded Arellano for setting an example for Filipino men, noting that his decision reflects care for his wife, Iya Villania, and their family of seven. “We need more men like Mr. Arellano,” the CPD said, calling the vasectomy a “manifestation of love and commitment.”
The CPD pointed out that men’s involvement in family planning remains low in the Philippines, with only 0.1% of Filipino males having undergone the no-scalpel vasectomy procedure. Family planning, it noted, is still largely shouldered by women.
Arellano made the announcement on social media with a playful nod to his wife, calling it an “advanced Mother’s Day” gift. He had previously mentioned that vasectomy was part of his long-term plan but postponed it following the birth of their fifth child, Anya.
Drew and Iya, married since 2014, are parents to Antonio Primo, Alonzo Leon, Alana Lauren, Astro Phoenix, and Anya Love.