Manila, April 30 -- The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) has lauded a television personality for receiving a vasectomy as manifestation of love and appreciation for his spouse and family.

In a statement on Wednesday, the CPD said Drew Arellano's gesture "strongly exemplifies responsible parenthood and family planning" as promoted by the commission.

"This comes as good news amidst the prevailing low level of participation of males in family planning as shown by the mere 0.1% of them accepting no-scalpel vasectomy. Currently, family planning is exercised mostly by women," it said.

"We need more men like Mr. Arellano to encourage men to assume greater responsibility in ensuring the well-being of their partner and their child...