The Philippines is the 12th most populous country in the world, the Commission on Population reveals. With its 82 million people, the growth rate is at 2.36%, meaning 1.8 million Filipino are added to the population every year or about four babies are born every minute.

Statistics shows further that the nation is home to 16.5 million adolescents or 1.6% of total global adolescent population. About 20% of the total population is comprised of Filipinos aged 15 to 24.

The increasing prevalence of sexual activity among Filipinos, especially adolescents who do not use contraceptives resulting to unwanted pregnancies, is said to be a factor for the rapid population growth. Another is the lack of a consistent and effective reproductive health program by the government.

The University of the Philippines Population Institute forecasts a population of 92 million by 2010 if the current growth rate continues.