MANILA, Philippines -- Health Secretary Enrique Ona has expressed support for a provision in the reproductive health bill that calls for giving couples access to information on all forms of contraception and the right to choose which of these contraceptive methods would be most appropriate for them.

In a news briefing in Malacañang, Ona was asked if he would continue former Health Secretary Esperanza Cabral?s distribution of condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancies and HIV infection.

?I believe in choice in reproductive health. I believe that we should inform couples about all the means (for reproductive health). (We give) full information and (it?s) their choice,? Ona said.

The Philippine government has been trying for years to promote birth control among couples to regulate the growth of a booming population that has impeded the state from improving the country?s economic conditions.

The Catholic Church strongly opposes government?s promotion of artificial birth control methods.