During a press briefing, the Integrated Midwives Association of The Philippines, the Philippines Society of Private Midwife Clinic Owners, and the Private Practicing Midwives Association voiced their opposition to certain provisions within the DOH Circular 2021-005.

The group asserts that the directive restricts midwives from providing proper healthcare to expectant mothers. This restriction could potentially impact maternal and neonatal mortality rates in the nation, as some pregnant women might resort to traditional birth attendants (hilot) rather than seeking care from licensed midwives at birthing clinics. Instances of this have reportedly been observed in various parts of Central Luzon.

The midwives’ collective further emphasized that some women’s decision to opt for traditional birthing attendants stems from the high costs associated with private hospitals, overcrowded public healthcare facilities, and subpar services at certain medical institutions.