Philippine 'circumcision season' underway after virus delaysThe Philippines has one of the highest rates of circumcision in the world, with many seeing the practice as key to entering manhood. Even as circumcision comes under increasing scrutiny elsewhere, with some critics branding it "child abuse", it is rarely questioned in the Philippines and boys face tremendous pressure to undergo the procedure. But last year, the "circumcision season" was cancelled for the first time in living memory due to the virus outbreak, delaying the milestone for many boys like Gruta. - 'Demarcating line' -Circumcision has been practised in the Philippines for centuries, enduring wars and colonisations by Spain and the United States. Many areas have yet to restart the free service as they battle Covid-19.

Source: Bangkok Post August 30, 2021 02:15 UTC