The unbending opposition to artificial methods of birth control by the powerful Catholic Church in the Philippines looks increasingly out of touch with popular sentiment after an opinion survey showed overwhelming support for contraception.

Economic research indicates that the high birth rate in this mainly is having a negative impact on economic growth and straining under-funded health and education programmes.

The poll by Pulse Asia found nine out of 10 respondents wanting the government to allocate funds for family planning programmes offering artificial methods of contraception.

With mid-term elections set for May 14, respondents were asked if they would support candidates backing such a move, and 75 per cent said yes.

Despite the economic fallout from a high birth rate, governments in Manila have generally steered clear of challenging the Bishops on this emotive issue.

The administration of President Gloria Arroyo, a staunch Catholic, probably heaves closer to the Church's doctrine of natural birth-control methods than any other government over the past 20 years.

Reacting to the survey, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita told reporters that the administration advocates 'responsible parenthood' - keeping family sizes to levels household incomes can support.

Source: The Straits Times (Singapore) reported in Push Journal, 23/Apr/07