Dr. Elvie Villalobos, DOH-6 Infectious Disease Cluster Head, said the culture in the country dictates that circumcision is considered part of every boy’s life and a rite of passage to manhood.

“Circumcision can cause teenagers to feel extreme pain, bleeding, discomfort, and for others this may become a traumatic experience so the one being circumcised should be cooperating, mature enough, and psychologically ready,” said Villalobos.