Amending Republic Act No. 10767 ( Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Act)

20a.8 Offin of it sa tarp TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session JUL 17 P2:14 SENATE S.B. No. . INTRODUCED BY SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR THE ELIMINATION OF TUBERCULOSIS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSES OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10767 OR THE COMPREHENSIVE TUBERCULOSIS ELIMINATION PLAN ACT EXPLANATORY NOTE In its 2024 Global Tuberculosis Report, the World Health Organization (WHO) noted that a total of 1.25 million people died from tuberculosis (TB), which has likely regained its position as the world's leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. This follows three years during which it was overtaken by coronavirus disease (COVID-19). TB also remained the leading killer of people living with HIV and a major contributor to deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance. The report further stated that, in 2023, an estimated 10.8 million people globally fell ill with TB. Several conditions increase the risk of developing TB, including diabetes (high blood sugar), weakened immune systems (e.g., due to HIV or AIDS), malnutrition, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption. Although TB is both preventable and curable, multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) continues to pose a serious threat to public health and security. Alarmingly, only 2 out of 5 people with MDR-TB have accessed treatment. The report also identified the Philippines as one of the top five high-burden countries (HBCs) for TB, alongside India, Indonesia, China, and Pakistan, contributing 6.8% to the global TB case load. To achieve a TB-free generation-defined as one with zero deaths, disease, and suffering due to tuberculosis-there is an urgent need for: (A) integrated, patient-centered care and prevention; (B) bold policies and supportive systems; and (C) intensified research and innovation. These efforts must be grounded in the principles of government stewardship and accountability, strong coalitions with civil society organizations and communities, the protection and promotion of human rights, ethics and equity, and the localization

of strategies and targets through global collaboration. In line with this vision, this bill seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10767, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Act, to strengthen integrated, patient-centered TB healthcare services within the framework of universal healthcare. It proposes to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of TB, promote a collaborative and multisectoral approach to TB response, and implement promotive and preventive measures aimed at TB elimination. Central to this proposal is the commitment to mainstream a rights-based approach in the country's national TB response, ensuring the active participation of communities, civil society, patient organizations, and TB survivors. In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought. RISA HONTIVEROS Senator

Dier of " JUL 17 P2:14 TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session RECENCO BY SENATE S.B. No. — INTRODUCED BY SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR THE ELIMINATION OF TUBERCULOSIS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSES OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10767 OR THE COMPREHENSIVE TUBERCULOSIS ELIMINATION PLAN ACT Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1, Sec. 2 of the same act is hereby amended to read as follows:

"Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - A) The State is mandated to adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development. Towards this end, the State shall support and expand efforts to eliminate tuberculosis as a public health problem by increasing investments for its prevention, treatment and control, and adopting a multisectoral approach in responding to the disease. B) Policies and practices that discriminate based on actual or perceived TB status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, disability, and ethnicity hinder the effectiveness of the TB response and are deemed inimical to public interest." Sec, 2. Sec. 4 of the same Act is hereby amended to read as follows: "Sec. 4. Comprehensive Philippine Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis. - The Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH) shall establish a Comprehensive Philippine Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis in consultation with appropriate public and private entities, including barangay councils, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), barangay health workers (BHWs), civil

society organizations (CSOs) working on TB, including organizations of TB patients and survivors. The Comprehensive Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis shall cover a period of six (6) years from the date of enactment of this Act. Following the initial six- year timeframe, the Comprehensive Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis shall be subject to periodic review every three (3) years thereafter. These reviews shall assess the effectiveness of the plan, identify any challenges or shortcomings, and propose amendments or enhancements as necessary to achieve the goal of TB elimination. The Philippine Plan of Action shall consist of the following: XXX"

Sec. 3. Section 8 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:

"Sec. 8. Education Programs. - The Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in coordination with the Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH), shall encourage the faculty of schools of medicine, nursing, or medical technology, and allied health institutions, to intensify information and education programs, including the development of curricula, to significantly increase the opportunities for students and for practicing providers to learn the principles and practices of preventing, detecting, managing, and controlling tuberculosis."

Sec. 4. Section 9 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:

"Sec. 9. Inclusion in Basic Education. - The Secretary of the Department of Education 22 (DepEd), in coordination with the Secretary of the DOH, shall ensure the inclusion of modules on the principles and practices of preventing, detecting, managing, and controlling tuberculosis, the rights and responsibilities of people affected by tuberculosis, and tuberculosis-related stigma and discrimination reduction education in the basic education curriculum. Teachers shall undergo training to equip them with information about tuberculosis, and information about tuberculosis shall be integrated into subjects such as Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (МАРЕН)."

Sec. 5. Section 10 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:

"Sec. 10. Media Campaign. - The Director-General of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), in coordination with the Secretary of the DOH, shall mandate local 32 media outlets to launch a massive, nationwide, consistent, and sustained media

1 campaign on tuberculosis control, treatment, and management, using all forms of 2 multimedia and other electronic means of communication. This campaign shall also include information about multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)."

Sec. 6. Sec. 13 of the same Act is hereby amended to read as follows:

5 "Sec. 13. PhilHealth TB Package. - The PhilHealth Health Insurance Corporation, 6 otherwise known as PhilHealth, shall, as far as practicable, expand its benefits package for TB patients to include new, relapse, and return-after-default cases, multidrug- resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and drug-sensitive TB (DS-TB). 9 Additional treatment for adverse drug reactions from the TB medicines shall also be covered, with such medicines available in the treatment facilities for the convenience of patients. The development or expansion of any PhilHealth benefit shall undergo a transparent and standardized prioritization setting process, such as health technology assessment and actuarial feasibility study, to avoid inequitable allocation of funds for healthcare services. The PhilHealth coverage shall apply until the patient has completed all necessary treatment, regardless of its duration. PhilHealth coverage for TB patients shall be expanded to cover the following: 1. All laboratories of patients: It is hereby mandated that all laboratory services required for the diagnosis and management of patients, inclusive of but not limited to x-ray and sputum examinations, shall be covered under PhilHealth. This provision aims to ensure comprehensive access to diagnostic tools essential for the effective management of tuberculosis (TB) and other health conditions. 2. Mental health check-ups and treatment: PhilHealth coverage shall extend to mental health check-ups and treatment services, including counseling, therapy, and medication, to address the psychological well-being of patients affected by TB and other mental health conditions. This initiative aims to integrate mental health support into the holistic care of patients and enhance overall treatment outcomes. 3. Ophthalmologist referral, check-ups, and treatment: PhilHealth coverage shall encompass ophthalmologist referrals, check-ups, and treatment services for

patients experiencing ocular manifestations or complications associated with TB and other health conditions. This provision ensures access to specialized eye care to prevent, diagnose, and manage ocular complications effectively. 4. Aftercare for TB survivors: PhilHealth coverage shall include aftercare services for TB survivors, addressing ongoing and irreversible side effects resulting from TB medications. This provision aims to support patients in managing and mitigating long-term adverse effects, ensuring their overall health and quality of life post-treatment. 5. Free or covered medications: PhilHealth shall provide coverage for free or subsidized medications, including ancillary drugs required for the management of adverse reactions resulting from TB medications. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on patients and promote adherence to treatment regimens, thereby improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of treatment interruption."

Sec. 7. A new section denominated as Section 14 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 14. Patients' rights and responsibilities. - A person with TB shall have the following rights: 1. Access to livelihood and psychosocial support, extended members of the patient's household. 2. Free X-ray for indigent patients. 3. Free follow-up every six months for DSTB and DRTB patients. 4. Access to case managers. 5. Right to confidentiality of medical records. 6. Right to information regarding TB healthcare services. 7. Right to work: (A) Patients can work despite ongoing medication/treatment as long as they submit a "fit to work" form from their pulmonologist. (B) If a patient presents a negative sputum result for TB and is no longer infectious with a fit to work form from their doctor, then they should be allowed to go back to work.

(C) If a patient is negative on their sputum result for at least 3 consecutive months, they should be allowed to go back to work by their pulmonologist."

Sec. 8. A new section denominated as Section 15 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 15. Service delivery network (SDN). - The DOH, through its regional offices and in coordination with LGUs, shall integrate and strengthen the provision of TB services into established SDNs for local health referral system, which shall not be restricted within the geographic or political boundaries of LGUs. Collaboration across LGUs shall 9 be encouraged. Non-registration shall not be a ground to be denied service. The SDN shall be a network of facilities ranging from barangay health stations (BHS), rural health units (RHUs), district and/or city hospitals, to the provincial and/or DOH- retained hospitals. The DOH and LGUs may engage private health facilities or provides to form part of the SDN."

Sec. 9. A new section denominated as Section 16 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 16. Private health facilities for TB-DOTS. - In order to enhance and maximize the participation of private health facilities in TB control, it is hereby mandated that all private health facilities seek accreditation from PhilHealth as TB-DOTS providers. Additionally, as a prerequisite for accreditation, all doctors and service providers responsible for TB care, whether in public or private settings, must undergo comprehensive training or receive updated/renewed training to ensure accurate diagnosis and prescription practices."

Sec. 10. A new section denominated as Section 17 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 17. Mobilization. - The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), other relevant government agencies, the private sector, public schools, civil society organizations, and organizations representing TB patients and survivors, shall lead the mobilization efforts aimed at raising public awareness and reducing stigma associated with tuberculosis. Furthermore, to facilitate the effective engagement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and people's support in the mobilization process, adequate budgetary allocations shall be provided or mechanisms shall be established to ensure that these entities have access to funds within their respective LGUs. Additionally,

organizations representing TB patients and survivors shall be actively involved in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of policies and programs that 3 directly impact them. They shall also be capacitated and supported by the national and local TB programs to conduct community-led TB programs and services."

Sec. 11. A new section denominated as Section 18 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 18. Institutionalization of TB Case Finding in Barangays. - The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), shall institutionalize TB case finding activities at the barangay level. This shall include the 9 training and deployment of barangay health workers (BHWs) and other frontline health workers to actively screen for TB symptoms, conduct sputum microscopy tests, and facilitate referrals to health facilities for diagnosis and treatment. LGUs shall allocate resources and support to ensure the sustainability of TB case finding efforts in barangays, with the aim of detecting and treating TB cases at the earliest possible stage to prevent transmission and improve treatment outcomes."

Sec. 12. A new section denominated as Section 19 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 19. Personnel Complement. - To ensure the effective implementation of this Act, the Department of Health (DOH) shall ensure that there is an adequate complement of competent and qualified staff and allied professionals who shall effectively carry out the objectives of the TB elimination program. In addition to conventional staffing, community members, including survivors and members of TB key populations, shall be actively engaged and employed where appropriate to enhance community involvement and ownership of TB services. The formulation of qualification standards for the staff complement must adhere to 24 Civil Service rules and regulations. The Secretary of the DOH shall submit proposed organizational and staffing modifications to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for review and approval. Furthermore, all DOH employees and staff involved in the TB elimination program shall participate in capacity-building programs and activities aimed at boosting competence and skill proficiency. These programs shall include sensitization courses on TB-related stigma and discrimination and the rights of people affected by TB." Sec, 13. A new section denominated as Section 20 is added to read as follows:

"Sec. 20. Tuberculosis Medium Term Plan. - The Department of Health (DOH), in 2 collaboration with LGUs and relevant stakeholders, shali formulate and implement a medium-term plan for the control and elimination of tuberculosis. The plan shall comprehensively outline strategies, objectives, and indicators aimed at reducing the burden of TB in the medium term. б6 The medium-term plan shall include a detailed budget allocation for implementing activities or programs stated therein, specifying the funding source and the responsible entity for providing it. Moreover, it shall delineate the roles and responsibilities of relevant government agencies and stakeholders involved in the implementation of the plan, ensuring seamless coordination and collaboration across sectors. Furthermore, the medium-term plan shall undergo periodic review and updating to ensure its alignment with the evolving landscape of tuberculosis control and elimination efforts. The implementation of the tuberculosis medium-term plan shall be fully and promptly implemented by the following government departments and agencies: 1. Department of Health (DOH): The DOH shall be the primary government agency responsible for health policy formulation, planning, regulation, and program implementation of the TB medium-term plan. 2. National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTP): The NTP, which operates under the DOH, shall be particularly responsible for the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of tuberculosis control activities in the country. It shall oversee the execution of the medium-term plan and coordination with various stakeholders. 3. Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth): PhilHealth shall be involved in the financing aspect of TB control programs for TB patients, including providing coverage for TB-related services. 4. Local Government Units (LGUs): LGUs shall play a crucial role in implementing health programs at the local level. LGUs would be responsible for implementing TB control activities within their jurisdictions, including case finding, treatment, and monitoring.

5. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD): DSWD shall be involved in providing support to vulnerable populations affected by TB, such as through social welfare programs and assistance to TB patients and their families. 6. Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED): These agencies shall be involved in TB control efforts through education and awareness campaigns in schools and universities. 7. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOS): Various CSOs and NGOs, in coordination with the DOH and NTP, shall be involved in TB control efforts, including advocacy, community engagement, and providing support services to TB patients. 8. Private Sector Partners: Private healthcare providers, hospitals, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and other private sector entities shall be engaged in TB control efforts through public-private partnerships, provision of services, and support for research and development."

Sec. 14, A new section denominated as Section 21 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Section 21. Other Sources of Funds. - The national government shall prioritize the outsourcing of funds for this Act through negotiation and utilization of concessional Official Development Assistance (ODA), other sources of funds such as grants, donations, collections, and other forms of assistance from local and foreign donors or other public or private entities. Other private domestic and international sources may be tapped and facilitated by the DOH to support the health services under this Act, subject to the regular accounting and procedures: Provided that in case of donations from foreign sources, acceptance thereof shall be subject to existing government rules and regulations."

Sec. 15. A new section denominated as Section 22 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 22. Workplace Policies for TB Prevention. - The Civil Service Commission (CSC) shall mandate all government agencies/offices, including uniformed services, to establish comprehensive workplace policies and programs for tuberculosis prevention. These policies shall include measures for the identification, prevention, and

1 management of tuberculosis in the workplace. The CSC shall work in coordination with 2 the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure the effective implementation and monitoring of these workplace policies and programs."

Sec. 16. A new section denominated as Section 23 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 23. Workplace Policies/Programs for TB in Private Companies. - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is mandated to compel private companies to establish and execute workplace policies and programs addressing tuberculosis (TB). 9 These policies and programs should encompass measures for TB prevention, awareness, and support for affected employees, regardless of their contractual status (permanent, regular, job order, contractual). All TB patients and survivors shall be accepted for employment or permitted to work, provided they furnish a fit to work form from a qualified healthcare professional and are physically capable of fulfilling their job responsibilities. Through collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH), DOLE shall ensure that private companies actively contribute to national TB control efforts and foster a healthy working environment." Sec, 17. A new section denominated as Section 24 of the same act is added to read as follows: "Sec. 24. Protection and Support for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with Tuberculosis (TB). - The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) shall institute comprehensive measures to provide protection and support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB), including those who have been repatriated due to TB infection. The DMW shall collaborate with relevant government agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to develop and implement programs tailored to the specific needs of OFWs affected by TB. These programs shall encompass the following components: A. Pre-departure screening: The DMW shall work in conjunction with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and other relevant agencies to enhance pre-departure screening protocols for OFWs, including TB screening,

to prevent the transmission of TB among migrant workers and their host communities. B. Access to healthcare services: The DMW shall facilitate access to quality healthcare services for OFWs diagnosed with TB, both in overseas host countries and upon repatriation to the Philippines. This includes ensuring that OFWs have access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, as well as psychosocial support services. C. Repatriation assistance: The DMW shall provide repatriation assistance to OFWs who are unable to continue working abroad due to TB infection, including arranging for their safe return to the Philippines and facilitating their reintegration into their communities. D. Financial support: The DMW shall explore mechanisms to provide financial support to OFWs affected by TB, including assistance with medical expenses, transportation costs, and livelihood support during their period of treatment and recovery. E. Advocacy and awareness: The DMW shall conduct advocacy and awareness campaigns to promote TB prevention, early detection, and treatment adherence among OFWs and their families. This includes disseminating information about TB risks, symptoms, and available support services. F. The DMW shall establish coordination mechanisms with the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and other relevant agencies to ensure seamless delivery of healthcare services and support to OFWs with TB. G. The DMW shall regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation of these measures, with the aim of continuously improving the effectiveness and responsiveness of support services for OFWs affected by TB."

Sec. 18. A new section denominated as Section 25 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 25. Integration with Disaster Preparedness Plan. - The Department of Health (DOH) shall ensure the integration of tuberculosis (TB) programming within the disaster preparedness plan of the country. This integration aims to enhance the resilience of the healthcare system and ensure the continuity of TB services during

and after natural or man-made disasters. The DOH shall collaborate with relevant agencies to develop and implement strategies that address TB control within the context of disaster response and recovery."

Sec. 19. A new section denominated as Section 26 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 26. Inclusion and Consultation of TB Affected Communities in IEC Materials. - The Department of Health (DOH) and other relevant agencies shall ensure the active inclusion and meaningful consultation of tuberculosis (TB) affected communities in the development of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials related to TB. This provision aims to incorporate the perspectives and experiences of those directly affected by TB, promoting community engagement, reducing stigma, and enhancing the effectiveness of TB awareness materials. IEC materials must be regularly updated and produced."

Sec. 20. A new section denominated as Section 27 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 27. Posting of TB Monitoring Database Available to the Public. - The Department of Health (DOH) shall establish and maintain a transparent and accessible tuberculosis (TB) monitoring database. This database shall be made available to the public, ensuring that relevant and non-confidential information regarding TB cases, treatment outcomes, and related statistics is easily accessible. This measure aims to enhance accountability, facilitate informed decision-making, and foster a collaborative approach to TB control. The DOH shall regularly publish tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology data, including but not limited to incidence rates, prevalence, treatment success rates, and drug resistance patterns, disaggregated by gender identity, age, occupation, identified key and vulnerable populations, and by region. The publication shall be made accessible to the public through official channels and platforms. This initiative seeks to promote transparency, inform the public, and facilitate evidence-based decision-making in TB control efforts."

Sec. 21. A new section denominated as Section 28 of the same act is added

31 to read as follows:

"Sec. 28. Compliance with Tuberculosis Manual of Operations (MOP). - All tuberculosis 2 (TB) facilities, whether public or private, are mandated to comply with the Tuberculosis Manual of Operations (MOP) issued by the Department of Health (DOH). The MOP shall serve as the comprehensive guide for the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of TB programs and services. The compliance ensures standardization of practices, quality assurance, and the attainment of the goals set forth in the National TB Control Program. The DOH shall create an oversight committee to ensure compliance and implementation of the MOP."

Sec. 22. A new section denominated as Section 29 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 29. Ensuring Accessibility, Availability, Acceptability, and Quality (AAAQ) of TB Response and Services. - The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with local government units, shall ensure that TB response and services adhere to the principles of accessibility, availability, acceptability, and quality (AAAQ). This involves making TB services physically and economically accessible to all, ensuring their continuous availability, promoting cultural and social acceptability, and maintaining high standards of quality in diagnosis, treatment, and support services. Regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms shall be established to assess and enhance the AAAQ standards across all levels of TB service delivery."

Sec. 23. A new section denominated as Section 30 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 30. Penalties for Acts of Discrimination. - Any person or entity found guilty of discriminatory practices based on actual or perceived TB status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, disability, and ethnicity, hindering the effectiveness of the TB response, shall suffer the penalty of not less than one (1) year but not more than six (6) years imprisonment or a fine of not more than Five Hundred Thousand Philippine Pesos (PhP500,000.00), or both, in the discretion of the court, and taking into consideration the circumstances and gravity of the offense."

Sec. 24. A new section denominated as Section 31 of the same act is added

to read as follows:

"Sec. 31. Penalties and Sanctions. - The following penalties and sanctions are hereby established for offenses enumerated in this Act: (A) Any person found guilty of violating Section 14 of this Act shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor in its minimum period and a fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00). (B) Any person found guilty of violating Section 15 of this Act shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor in its minimum period and a fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00). (C) Any person found guilty of violating Section 22 of this Act shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayorin its minimum period and a fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00). (D)Any person found guilty of violating Section 26 of this Act shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor in its minimum period and a fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00). (E) Any person found guilty of creating and spreading false information about TB shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor in its minimum period and a fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00)."

Sec. 25. A new section denominated as Section 32 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 32. Celebration of World TB Day. - March 24 shall be designated as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day in the Philippines. The Department of Health (DOH) shall lead in the organization of activities and events nationwide to raise awareness about TB, promote prevention and control measures, and highlight the importance of addressing TB as a public health priority. LGUs, schools, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders are encouraged to participate in World TB Day activities to support efforts in TB control and elimination."

Sec. 26, A new section denominated as Section 33 of the same act is added

2 to read as follows: "Sec. 33. Privileges for TB Patients. - TB patients shall be entitled to a 12% VAT exemption on food, medications, vitamins, transportation in consideration of the temporary loss of income while on treatment, subject to the guidelines to be developed by the Department of Health (DOH) and relevant government agencies. The DOH shall coordinate with establishments and service providers to ensure the implementation of these privileges for TB patients."

Sec. 27. A new section denominated as Section 34 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 34. Free Vaccines and Vitamins for TB Patients. - TB patients shall be provided with free flu and pneumonia vaccines, as well as essential vitamins, to support their overall health and well-being during the course of their treatment. The Department of Health (DOH) shall ensure the availability and distribution of these vaccines and vitamins to TB patients through designated healthcare facilities and programs."

Sec. 28. A new section denominated as Section 35 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 35. Utilization of Separate Funds for TB Treatment in Barangays. - Barangays shall allocate separate funds specifically designated for the treatment and management of tuberculosis (TB) within their respective jurisdictions. These funds shall be utilized to support TB prevention, detection, treatment, and control programs, including but not limited to, the provision of necessary medications, diagnostic tests, and healthcare services for TB patients. The barangay health committees shall oversee the proper allocation and utilization of these funds in accordance with guidelines provided by the Department of Health (DOH) and other relevant authorities."

Sec. 29. A new section denominated as Section 36 of the same act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 36. Continuous Engagement in Development of TB Vaccines and Medications. - The Department of Health (DOH), through its relevant departments and units, shall maintain continuous engagement in the research, development, and procurement of vaccines and other medications for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of tuberculosis (TB). This includes active participation in international collaborations,

partnerships, and initiatives aimed at advancing scientific knowledge, innovation, and access to TB vaccines and medications. The DOH shall allocate adequate resources and support to facilitate research efforts, clinical trials, and regulatory processes necessary for the development and approval of safe, effective, and accessible TB interventions."

Sec. 30. A new section denominated as Section 37 of the same Act is added

to read as follows: "Sec. 37. Annual Report. - The DOH, in coordination with other relevant NGAs and 9 LGUs, shall prepare an annual report on the status of the implementation of the program, and recommend necessary policies for the effective implementation of this Act. This report shall be submitted to the President of the Philippines, the Senate President, the House Speaker, and the Chairpersons of the Committee on Health and Demography of the Senate of the Philippines, and the Committee on Health of the House of Representatives."

Sec. 31. Sections 17, 18, 19, are hereby numbered as Sections a, b, and c,

respectively.

Sec. 32. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof is held invalid or

declared unconstitutional, the other provisions which are not affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect.

Sec. 33. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance,

executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly.

Sec. 34. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

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