surgery for advanced stages of breast cancer; and the absence of a policy for end of life/hospice care. Among people with HIV (PLHIV). Achieve, Inc. pointed out that while the RH Law provides for PLHIV, it is weak on mother-child association. Only PGH is accredited to deliver a child from a mother who is HIV-positive. Cases include the refusal of a myoma operation to an HIV victim and the death of a pregnant woman who was refused delivery at the UERM. Among LGBTs. While health centers are generally welcome to providng RH goods and services to LGBTs, Achieve, Inc. pointed out that there is a lack of perspective for transwomen in particular. The required parental consent is also a barrier for LGBTs’ access to these goods and services, an issue that links with concern over the spread of HIV. BARRIERS/CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY STATE AND OTHER HEALTH SERVICE PROVIDERS 1. UNSUPPORTIVE POLICY ENVIRONMENT The TRO on Implanon and the occasional insufficient supplies both in Manila and Marikina bar health workers from fully implementing the RH Law. 2. PRESENCE OF CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS RESISTANCE Service providers also find that the community’s superstitious beliefs, tendency to slack off on post-partum care, and tendency to neglect mechanics of contraceptive methods are challenges to carrying out RH goods and services. Additionally, according to service providers, clients have poor health-seeking attitude. They will not take the medicine even if they are available. They also tend to believe chismis than believe the information from the BHW. They would rather listen to their neighbors (who may be wrong about RH and contraception). Attitude and perceptions of masculinity also lead to misconceptions about RH services for men, including vasectomy. There are also cases where health workers received counter charges for alleged criminal negligence. Deaths were blamed on them. Health workers interviewed also reiterated the need for continuous training. Some doctors and health workers are no longer confident to attend to RH concerns due to lack of practical and updated training. 30