The Department of Health on Wednesday urged Filipino men to undergo vasectomy to contribute to the nation's initiative for family planning.

Citing the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), the DOH said only 0.1 percent of males in the Philippines have undergone no-scalpel vasectomy.

According to CPD, more than 8.6 million Filipino women are currently using modern methods of family planning. Male-centric methods, however, still register the lowest figures.

Users of male condoms also remain low at 1.6 percent.

"Vasectomy is safe and effective. Be part of family planning because it is not just a woman's responsibility,"the DOH said.

"Also remember that a vasectomy doesn't reduce one's masculinity," it added.

The Health agency also urged Filipino men to consult a healthcare worker for correct information about vasectomy.