Philippine Meningitis Day

. * Senate Offier of the Seiretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session ) 25 DEC 10 P1:49 SENATE RECEIVED BY: S. No. 1592 Introduced by Senator Camille A. Villar AN ACT DECLARING OCTOBER 5 OF EVERY YEAR AS PHILIPPINE MENINGITIS DAY EXPLANATORY NOTE Article II, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that, "The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them". Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It progresses rapidly-sometimes within just a day and can lead to death or long-term complications such as hearing impairment, seizures, and developmental disabilities. Young children are particularly at risk since their immune systems are still developing. Globally, almost 40 percent of meningitis- related deaths occur among children under five years old, highlighting the urgent need for early protection and prevention. Data from the Meningitis Progress Tracker show that in 2021, the Philippines ranked 32nd among 194 countries in reported meningitis cases and 2nd among 27 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Health experts have observed a steady rise in infections in recent years and emphasize the importance of timely vaccination for children. Raising awareness is one of the most effective defenses against meningitis. Knowledge about early warning signs, quick medical intervention, and preventive

measures like immunization can greatly reduce deaths and disabilities associated with the disease. By declaring October 5 of every year as "Philippine Meningitis Day", this measure seeks to increase public understanding of the disease, promote prevention, and encourage timely medical attention. This observance will serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and public education, and as a call for stronger cooperation among government agencies, health institutions, and communities to combat meningitis and protect the health of every Filipino. In view thereof, I humbly call for the swift passage of this bill. CAMILLE A. VILLAR

• . Schate Office of the recerrtarp TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) First Regular Session ) 25 DEC 10 P1:50 SENATE RECEIVED BY: S. No. 1592 Introduced by Senator Camille A. Villar AN ACT DECLARING OCTOBER 5 OF EVERY YEAR AS PHILIPPINE MENINGITIS DAY Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Philippine Meningitis

Day".

Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to

protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. Towards this end, the State recognizes the urgent need to raise awareness on meningitis prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, and to mobilize multi-sectoral participation to defeat meningitis in the Philippines.

Sec. 3 Philippine Meningitis Day. - To promote public awareness and

strengthen the country's response to meningitis, October 5 of every year is hereby declared as "Philippine Meningitis Day".

Sec. 4. Lead Agency. - The Department of Health (DOH) shall lead the annual

observance of Philippine Meningitis Day, in coordination with: i. Department of Education (DepEd); ii. Commission on Higher Education (CHED); ili. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); iv. Medical and professional associations; and

V. Other concerned stakeholders. The DOH shall develop programs, activities, and materials to promote meningitis prevention and awareness, including vaccination, early recognition of 4 symptoms, and prompt treatment.

Sec. 5. Activities. - During Philippine Meningitis Day, the DOH, partner

agencies and private sectors shall conduct nationwide information and education campaigns, seminars, community health drives, and other relevant activities designed to educate the public and healthcare providers about meningitis prevention and management.

Sec. 6.

Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining provisions shall not be affected thereby.

Sec. 7. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines. Approved,