Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Philippines

SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session
5998

HOUSE BILL NO.

INTRODUCED BY REPRESENTATIVE ALFRED VARGAS

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is described as an energy deficit disorder
characterized by fatigue and prolonged tiredness. It may last for more than six
months and sometimes begins with flu-like symptoms. CFS cannot be relieved by
simply resting. It can cause muscle pain and nausea and may interfere with
work-related, educational, social, and personal activities and may eventually lead
to depression. The cause of CFS is unknown and is difficult to diagnose since
fatigue may be a symptom of a range of other conditions. It can, however, be
managed through minimizing stress, maintaining an exercise routine, getting
sufficient sleep, and observing a healthy diet.

While it can be observed that more Filipinos are afflicted by the disease,
our country still lacks awareness and knowledge on CFS. More often than not, a
person with CFS is often overlooked and perceived as lazy and attention-seeking.
This social stigma affects the patient psychologically and may cause prolonged
recovery from the disease.

This bill directs the Department of Health and the Philippine Information
Agency to carry out a national campaign to increase public awareness and
knowledge of CFS.

In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is sought.

ALFRED V.


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Philippines

SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session

5998

HOUSE BILL NO.

INTRODUCED BY REPRESENTATIVE ALFRED VARGAS

ANACT
PROMOTING AWARENESS ON CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the
Philippines in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome Awareness Act”.

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is
widely misunderstood such that patients are viewed as malingering, wanting
attention or feigning CFS-like syndrome. The lack of recognition of the disease
and support for CFS patients affect them psychologically thereby prolonging
their recovery from the disease. It is in accord with the policy of the State to
protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health
consciousness among them that awareness of CFS be raised to dispel the social
stigma associated with the disease so that the patients may attain early recovery
and restoration to a productive and fulfilling life.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. - For purposes of this Act, the term:

1. "DOH" refers to the Department of Health;

2. “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)" refers to CFS is an energy deficit
disorder, the impact primarily is on the immune system, the brain, the
muscles and endocrine system; and

3, "PIA" refers to the Philippine Information Agency;

SECTION 4. National Public Awareness Campaign. - The Department of
Health (DOH) in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) shall
carry out a national campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Activities under the national campaign shall include:

1. The dissemination of information on recent findings about CFS, its
probable causes, prevention, diagnosis, and available treatments.


2. Information on how to provide the necessary emotional support to a
family member, relative or friend suffering from CFS.

SECTION 5. Implementing Agency. - The Department of Health (DOH),
in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), is hereby
authorized and directed to adopt a system to implement and carry out the
provisions of this Act. The DOH shall, within 60 days from the effectivity of this
Act, promulgate rules and regulations to carry out and enforce the provisions of
this Act.

SECTION 6. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the
provisions of this Act is hereby authorized to be appropriated from the National
Treasury.

SECTION 7. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is held
invalid or unconstitutional, the same shall not affect the validity and effectivity of
the other provisions hereof.

SECTION 8. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, and issuances,
or portions thereof, which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, are
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SECTION 9. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15)
days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of
general circulation.

Approved,