Over 300 young boys in early puberty undergo mass circumcision at school in Philippines

Circumcision or 'tuli' as it is known in the Philippines is common in the country with 93% of males circumcised. It is tradition for boys about to enter puberty. Uncircumcised boys are often teased by peers so the boys endure the pain in order to be accepted socially.


According to the World Health Organisation, 30 to 33 percent of men aged 15 or over are circumcised worldwide but the figure is much higher in Philippines at 93% where the majority of the population is Roman Catholic.
The Filipino government funds the annual tradition to ensure that operations are conducted hygienically.

In Marikana city which lies east of the capital, Manila, 300 boys took part in the tradition this week at a local school.

 They are encouraged to wear loose, shirt-like clothing after the procedure.
Five years ago 1,500 boys were circumcised on the same day in Marikina City but the Guinness Book of Records rejected an application 'due to hygiene considerations and risks'.