By Genalyn Kabiling
Amid concerns that digestive diseases are among the common causes of death, President Duterte has declared the second week of March of every year as "Philippine Digestive Health Week” to promote public health.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (ALFRED FRIAS / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
In Proclamation No. 930, the President directed the Department of Health (DOH) to lead, coordinate, and supervise the annual event aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of a health digestive system.
"Among the leading causes of deaths in the Philippines are related to the digestive tract, which includes among others, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, peptic ulcer disease, diarrhea and stomach cancer, which are potentially preventable if the necessary interventions such as screening, public education, advocacies, and awareness programs are readily available," the proclamation read.
"There is a need to promote awareness, educate the public, pool resources for the prevention and management of various diseases and conditions relative to digestive health."
The President has also directed all government agencies including government-owned and -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges to support the health department in the conduct of programs and activities related to digestive health week every March.
Local government units and the private sector are also encouraged to participate and support the annual observance.
The order was signed by the President on Wednesday (March 18).