Ordinance for the Protection of Cancer Patients & Survivors

CEBU, Philippines - Cancer is currently the third leading cause of death in the Philippines. There are many factors that trigger it, but some types are recognized to be lifestyle-related. With that said, there are precautionary measures we can do to prevent the illness. In an article written by Corazon A. Ngelangel and Edward H. M. Wang, in the Philippines, “there is at present a low cancer prevention consciousness and most cancer patients seek consultation only at advanced stages.” In effect, the Philippines has a relatively low cancer survival rate.

It is vital, therefore, that we have adequate knowledge about cancer because this will help us in preventing and fighting against it. At this point, we need to ask ourselves, what are the causes? Are we at risk? Who do we approach if we or our relatives are diagnosed with cancer?

In the recently approved City Ordinance 2162, which is the “Ordinance Creating The Task Force For The Protection And Welfare Of Persons With Cancer And Providing Funds,” there is the promotion of cancer awareness programs. This will be done with the help of the Department of Education (DepEd), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). It should be noted though that this promotional campaign is only one of the provisions stated in the ordinance.

This ordinance aims to grant cancer patients with convenience and hassle-free access to social services, transportation, hospitals and other establishments, either private or government-owned. A unified identification system for patients and survivors will also be implemented so that the process will run smoothly.

The ID will be issued by the Task Force Cancer, to be duly certified by the oncologist of the Cancer Care Network, and to be verified by an accredited Local Cancer Support Group and by the City Health Department.

Ronald de los Reyes, the Program Coordinator of the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center, said that the crafting of this ordinance began in a series of meetings between Cebu City Councilor Nestor Archival and various cancer support groups. Eventually, the latter presented to the council the status of cancer in the city. Emphasis was given to the fact that between 1998 to 2002, cancer cases in Cebu City were greater than those in other cities and municipalities within Metro Cebu combined.

He also said that the key issue he wanted the Task Force to prioritize is the strengthening of the Cebu City Medical Center in terms of its capacity for prevention, screening, and early detection of cancer.

“It will be a challenge for us to keep this ordinance moving and functional,” he added. The ordinance mandates establishments within Cebu City to provide priority lanes for cancer patients as well as designated smoking areas so that the patients won’t be exposed to the smoke. When cancer patients are undergoing treatment, they are “immunocompromised.” It wouldn’t do well for them to be staying in public places for long periods of time.  

The task force will be composed of the mayor; the chairpersons of the Committee on Health, Committee on Environment, and Committee on Family and Women; and representatives from the Philippine Society of Medical Oncologists, DOH Region 7, Cancer Care Network, Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center.