TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S.B. No.
)
)
)
SENATE
688
SnMa.::
.Offiff o( iv-.- & • .'tsty
25 JUL 17 P2:14
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) forTB, 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
1


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.
sought
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly
RISA HONTIVEROS 
Senator


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TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
\Ofli:i- of
25 JUL17 P2-.14
I'u Bv.
SENATE
S.B. No. 688
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


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society organizations (CSOs) working on TB, including organizations of TB
2 
patients and survivors.
3 
The Comprehensive Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis shall cover a period
4 
of six (6) years from the date of enactment of this Act. Following the initial six-
5 
year timeframe, the Comprehensive Plan of Action to Eliminate Tuberculosis
6 
shall be subject to periodic review every three (3) years thereafter. These
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reviews shall assess the effectiveness of the plan, identify any challenges or
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shortcomings, and propose amendments or enhancements as necessary to
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achieve the goal of TB elimination.
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The Philippine Plan of Action shall consist of the following:
11 
XXX"
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Sec. 3. Section 8 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:
13 
"Sec. 8. Education Programs. - The Chairperson of the Commission on Higher
14 
Education (CHED), in coordination with the Secretary of the Department of Health
15 
(DOH), shall encourage the faculty of schools of medicine, nursing, or medical
16 
technology, and allied health institutions, to intensify information and education
17 
programs, including the development of curricula, to significantly increase the
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opportunities for students and for practicing providers to learn the principles and
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practices of preventing, detecting, managing, and controlling tuberculosis."
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Sec. 4. Section 9 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:
21 
"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
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modules on the principles and practices of preventing, detecting, managing, and
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controlling tuberculosis, the rights and responsibilities of people affected by
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tuberculosis, and tuberculosis-related stigma and discrimination reduction education
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in the basic education curriculum. Teachers shall undergo training to equip them with
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information about tuberculosis, and information about tuberculosis shall be integrated
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into subjects such as Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH)."
29 
Sec. 5. Section 10 of the same Act is amended to read as follows:
30 
"Sec. 10. Media Campaign. - The Director-General of the Philippine Information
31 
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
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include information about multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)."
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Sec. 6. Sec. 13 of the same Act is hereby amended to read as follows:
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"Sec. 13. PhilHealth TB Package. - The PhllHealth Health Insurance Corporation,
6 
otherwise known as PhilHealth, shall, as far as practicable, expand its benefits package
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for TB patients to include new, relapse, and return-after-default cases, multidrug-
8 
resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and drug-sensitive TB (DS-TB).
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Additional treatment for adverse drug reactions from the TB medicines shall also be
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covered, with such medicines available in the treatment facilities for the convenience
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of patients.
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The development or expansion of any PhilHealth benefit shall undergo a
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transparent and standardized prioritization setting process, such as health technology
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assessment and actuarial feasibility study, to avoid inequitable allocation of funds for
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healthcare services.
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The PhilHealth coverage shall apply until the patient has completed all
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necessary treatment, regardless of its duration.
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PhilHealth coverage for TB patients shall be expanded to cover the following:
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1. All laboratories of patients: It is hereby mandated that all laboratory services
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required for the diagnosis and management of patients, inclusive of but not
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limited to x-ray and sputum examinations, shall be covered under PhilHealth.
22 
This provision aims to ensure comprehensive access to diagnostic tools
23 
essential for the effective management of tuberculosis 
(TB) and other health
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conditions.
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2. Mental health check-ups and treatment: PhilHealth coverage shall extend to
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mental health check-ups and treatment services, including counseling, therapy,
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and medication, to address the psychological well-being of patients affected by
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TB and other mental health conditions. This initiative aims to integrate mental
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health support into the holistic care of patients and enhance overall treatment
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outcomes.
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3. Ophthalmologist referral, check-ups, and treatment: PhilHealth coverage shall
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encompass ophthalmologist 
referrals, check-ups, 
and treatment services for


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patients experiencing ocular manifestations or complications associated with TB
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and other health conditions. This provision ensures access to specialized eye
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care to prevent, diagnose, and manage ocular complications effectively.
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4. Aftercare for TB survivors: PhilHealth coverage shall include aftercare services
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for TB survivors, addressing ongoing and irreversible side effects resulting from
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TB medications. This provision aims to support patients in managing and
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mitigating long-term adverse effects, ensuring their overall health and quality
8 
of life post-treatment.
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5. Free or covered medications: PhilHealth shall provide coverage for free or
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subsidized medications, including ancillary drugs required for the management
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of adverse reactions resulting from TB medications. This initiative aims to
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alleviate the financial burden on patients and promote adherence to treatment
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regimens, thereby improving treatment outcomes 
and reducing the risk of
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treatment interruption."
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Sec. 7. A new section denominated as Section 14 is added to read as follows:
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"Sec. 14. Patients' rights and responsibilities. - A person with TB shall have the
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following rights:
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1. Access to livelihood and psychosocial support, extended members of the
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patient's household.
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2. Free X-ray for indigent patients.
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3. Free follow-up every six months for DSTB and DRTB patients.
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4. Access to case managers.
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5. Right to confidentiality of medical 
records.
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6. Right to information regarding TB healthcare services.
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7. Right to work:
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(A) Patients can work despite ongoing medication/treatment as long as they
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submit a "fit to work" form from their pulmonologist.
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(B)If a patient presents a negative sputum result for TB and is no longer
29 
infectious with a fit to work form from their doctor, then they should be
30 
allowed to go back to work.


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(C)If a patient is negative on their sputum result for at least 3 consecutive
2 
months, they should be allowed to go back to work by their
3 
pulmonologist."
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Sec. 8. A new section denominated as Section 15 is added to read as follows:
5 
"Sec. 15. Service delivery network (SDN). - The DOH, through its regional offices and
6 
in coordination with LGUs, shall integrate and strengthen the provision of TB services
7 
into established SDNs for local health referral system, which shall not be restricted
8 
within the geographic or political boundaries of LGUs. Collaboration across LGUs shall
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be encouraged.
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Non-registration shall not be a ground to be denied service.
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The SDN shall be a network of facilities ranging from barangay health stations (BHS),
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rural health units (RHUs), district and/or city hospitals, to the provincial and/or DOH-
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retained hospitals. The DOH and LGUs may engage private health facilities or provides
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to form part of the SDN."
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Sec. 9. A new section denominated as Section 16 is added to read as follows:
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"Sec. 16. Private health facilities for TB-DOTS. - In order to enhance and maximize
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the participation of private health facilities in TB control, it is hereby mandated that
18 
all private health facilities seek accreditation from PhilHealth as TB-DOTS providers.
19 
Additionally, as a prerequisite for accreditation, all doctors and service providers
20 
responsible for TB care, whether in public or private settings, must undergo
21 
comprehensive training or receive updated/renewed training to ensure accurate
22 
diagnosis and prescription practices."
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Sec. 10. A new section denominated as Section 17 is added to read as follows:
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"Sec. 17. Mobilization. - The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with local
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government units (LGUs), other relevant government agencies, the private sector,
26 
public schools, civil society organizations, and organizations representing TB patients
27 
and survivors, shall lead the mobilization efforts aimed at raising public awareness and
28 
reducing stigma associated with tuberculosis.
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Furthermore, to facilitate the effective engagement of non-governmental
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organizations (NGOs) and people's support in the mobilization process, adequate
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budgetary allocations shall be provided or mechanisms shall be established to ensure
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that these entities have access to funds within their respective LGUs. Additionally,


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organizations representing TB patients and survivors shall be actively involved in the
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planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of policies and programs that
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directly impact them. They shall also be capacitated and supported by the national
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and local TB programs to conduct community-led TB programs and services."
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Sec. 11. A new section denominated as Section 18 is added to read as follows:
6 
"Sec. 18. Institutionalization of TB Case Finding in Barangays. - The Department of
7 
Health (DOH), in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), shall
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institutionalize TB case finding activities at the barangay level. This shall include the
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training and deployment of barangay health workers (BHWs) and other frontline health
10 
workers to actively screen for TB symptoms, conduct sputum microscopy tests, and
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facilitate referrals to health facilities for diagnosis and treatment. LGUs shall allocate
12 
resources and support to ensure the sustainability of TB case finding efforts in
13 
barangays, with the aim of detecting and treating TB cases at the earliest possible
14 
stage to prevent transmission and improve treatment outcomes."
15 
Sec. 12. A new section denominated as Section 19 is added to read as follows:
16 
"Sec. 19. Personnel Complement. - To ensure the effective implementation of this Act,
17 
the Department of Health (DOH) shall ensure that there is an adequate complement
18 
of competent and qualified staff and allied professionals who shall effectively carry out
19 
the objectives of the TB elimination program. In addition to conventional staffing,
20 
community members, including survivors and members of TB key populations, shall
21 
be actively engaged and employed where appropriate to enhance community
22 
involvement and ownership of TB services.
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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
25 
organizational and staffing modifications to the Department of Budget and
26 
Management (DBM) for review and approval.
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Furthermore, all DOH employees and staff involved in the TB elimination program shall
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participate in capacity-building programs and activities aimed at boosting competence
29 
and skill proficiency. These programs shall include sensitization courses on TB-related
30 
stigma and discrimination and the rights of people affected by TB."
31 
Sec. 13. A new section denominated as Section 20 is added to read as follows:


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"Sec. 20. Tuberculosis Medium Term Plan. - The Department of Health (DOH), in
2 
collaboration with LGUs and relevant stakeholders, shall formulate and implement a
3 
medium-term plan for the control and elimination of tuberculosis. The plan shall
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comprehensively outline strategies, objectives, and indicators aimed at reducing the
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burden of TB in the medium term.
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The medium-term plan shall include a detailed budget allocation for implementing
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activities or programs stated therein, specifying the funding source and the
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responsible entity for providing it. Moreover, it shall delineate the roles and
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responsibilities of relevant government agencies and stakeholders involved in the
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implementation of the plan, ensuring seamless coordination and collaboration across
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sectors.
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Furthermore, the medium-term plan shall undergo periodic review and updating to
13 
ensure its alignment with the evolving landscape of tuberculosis control and
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elimination efforts.
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The implementation of the tuberculosis medium-term plan shall be fully and promptly
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implemented by the following government departments and agencies:
17 
1. Department of Health (DOH): The DOH shall be the primary government
18 
agency responsible for health policy formulation, planning, regulation, and
19 
program implementation of the TB medium-term plan.
20 
2. National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTP): The NTP, which operates under
21 
the DOH, shall be particularly responsible for the planning, implementation,
22 
monitoring, and evaluation of tuberculosis control activities in the country. It
23 
shall oversee the execution of the medium-term plan and coordination with
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various stakeholders.
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3. Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth): PhilHealth shall be
26 
involved in the financing aspect of TB control programs for TB patients,
27 
including providing coverage for TB-related services.
28 
4. Local Government Units (LGUs): LGUs shall play a crucial role in implementing
29 
health programs at the local level. LGUs would be responsible for implementing
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TB control activities within their jurisdictions, including case finding, treatment,
31 
and monitoring.


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5. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD); DSWD shall be
2 
involved in providing support to vulnerable populations affected by TB, such as
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through social welfare programs and assistance to TB patients and their
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families.
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6. Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education
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(CHED): These agencies shall be involved in TB control efforts through
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education and awareness campaigns in schools and universities.
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7. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations
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(NGOs): Various CSOs and NGOs, in coordination with the DOH and NTP, shall
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be involved in TB control efforts, including advocacy, community engagement,
11 
and providing support services to TB patients.
12 
8. Private Sector Partners: Private healthcare providers, hospitals, laboratories,
13 
pharmaceutical companies, and other private sector entities shall be engaged
14 
in TB control efforts through public-private partnerships, provision of services,
15 
and support for research and development."
16 
Sec. 14. A new section denominated as Section 21 of the same act is added
17 
to read as follows:
18 
"Section 21. Other Sources of Funds. - The national government shall prioritize the
19 
outsourcing of funds for this Act through negotiation and utilization of concessional
20 
Official Development Assistance (ODA), other sources of funds such as grants,
21 
donations, collections, and other forms of assistance from local and foreign donors or
22 
other public or private entities. Other private domestic and international sources may
23 
be tapped and facilitated by the DOH to support the health services under this Act,
24 
subject to the regular accounting and procedures: Provided that in case of donations
25 
from foreign sources, acceptance thereof shall be subject to existing government rules
26 
and regulations."
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Sec. 15. A new section denominated as Section 22 of the same act is added
28 
to read as follows:
29 
"Sec. 22. Workplace Policies for TB Prevention. - The Civil Service Commission (CSC)
30 
shall mandate all government agencies/offices, including uniformed services, to
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establish comprehensive workplace policies and programs for tuberculosis prevention.
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These policies shall include measures for the identification, prevention, and
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management of tuberculosis in the workplace. The CSC shall work in coordination with 
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 TBin 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). 
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.


1 
to prevent the transmission of TB among migrant workers and their host
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communities.
3 
B. Access to healthcare services; The DMW shall facilitate access to quality
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healthcare services for OFWs diagnosed with TB, both in overseas host
5 
countries and upon repatriation to the Philippines. This includes ensuring that
6 
OFWs have access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, as well
7 
as psychosocial support services.
8 
C. Repatriation assistance: The DMW shall provide repatriation assistance to OFWs
9 
who are unable to continue working abroad due to TB infection, including
10 
arranging for their safe return to the Philippines and facilitating their
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reintegration into their communities.
12 
D. Financial support: The DMW shall explore mechanisms to provide financial
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support to OFWs affected by TB, including assistance with medical 
expenses,
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transportation costs, and livelihood support during their period 
of treatment
15 
and recovery.
16 
E. Advocacy and awareness: The DMW shall conduct advocacy and awareness
17 
campaigns to promote TB prevention, early detection, and treatment
18 
adherence among OFWs and their families. This includes disseminating
19 
information about TB risks, symptoms, and available support services.
20 
F. The DMW shall establish coordination mechanisms with the Department of
21 
Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and other
22 
relevant agencies to ensure seamless delivery of healthcare services and
23 
support to OFWs with TB.
24 
G. The DMW shall regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation of these
25 
measures, with the aim of continuously improving the effectiveness and
26 
responsiveness of support services for OFWs affected by TB."
27 
Sec. 18. A new section denominated as Section 25 of the same act is added
28 
to read as follows:
29 
"Sec. 25. Integration with Disaster Preparedness Plan. - The Department of Health
30 
(DOH) shall ensure the integration of tuberculosis (TB) programming within the
31 
disaster preparedness plan of the country. This integration aims to enhance the
32 
resilience of the healthcare system and ensure the continuity of TB services during
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and after natural or man-made disasters. The DOH shall collaborate with relevant
2 
agencies to develop and implement strategies that address TB control within the
3 
context of disaster response and recovery."
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Sec. 19. A new section denominated as Section 26 of the same act is added
5 
to read as follows;
6 
"Sec. 26. Inclusion and Consultation of TB Affected Communities in lEC Materials. -
1 
The Department of Health (DOH) and other relevant agencies shall ensure the active
8 
inclusion and meaningful consultation of tuberculosis (TB) affected communities in the
9 
development of information, education, and communication (lEC) materials related to
10 
TB. This provision aims to incorporate the perspectives and experiences of those
11 
directly affected by TB, promoting community engagement, reducing stigma, and
12 
enhancing the effectiveness of TB awareness materials.
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lEC materials must be regularly updated and produced."
14 
Sec. 20. A new section denominated as Section 27 of the same act is added
15 
to read as follows:
16 
"Sec. 27. Posting of TB Monitoring Database Available to the Public. - The Department
17 
of Health (DOH) shall establish and maintain a transparent and accessible tuberculosis
18 
(TB) monitoring database. This database shall be made available to the public,
19 
ensuring that relevant and non-confidential information regarding TB cases, treatment
20 
outcomes, and related statistics is easily accessible. This measure aims to enhance
21 
accountability, facilitate informed decision-making, and foster a collaborative approach
22 
to TB control.
23 
The DOH shall regularly publish tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology data, including but not
24 
limited to incidence rates, prevalence, treatment success rates, and drug resistance
25 
patterns, disaggregated by gender identity, age, occupation, identified key and
26 
vulnerable populations, and by region. The publication shall be made accessible to the
27 
public through official channels and platforms. This initiative seeks to promote
28 
transparency, inform the public, and facilitate evidence-based decision-making in TB
29 
control efforts."
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Sec. 21. A new section denominated as Section 28 of the same act is added
31 
to read as follows:
11


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"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
3 
Manual of Operations (MOP) issued by the Department of Health (DOH). The MOP
4 
shall serve as the comprehensive guide for the planning, implementation, monitoring,
5 
and evaluation of TB programs and services. The compliance ensures standardization
6 
of practices, quality assurance, and the attainment of the goals set forth in the National
7 
TB Control Program.
8 
The DOH shall create an oversight committee to ensure compliance and
9 
implementation of the MOP."
10 
Sec. 22. A new section denominated as Section 29 of the same act is added
11 
to read as follows:
12 
"Sec. 29. Ensuring Accessibility, Availability, Acceptability, and Quality (AAAQ) of TB
13 
Response and Services. - The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with local
14 
government units, shall ensure that TB response and services adhere to the principles
15 
of accessibility, availability, acceptability, and quality (AAAQ). This involves making TB
16 
services physically and economically accessible to all, ensuring their continuous
17 
availability, promoting cultural and social acceptability, and maintaining high standards
18 
of quality in diagnosis, treatment, and support services. Regular monitoring and
19 
evaluation mechanisms shall be established to assess and enhance the AAAQ
20 
standards across all levels of TB service delivery."
21 
Sec. 23. A new section denominated as Section 30 of the same act is added
22 
to read as follows:
23 
"Sec. 30. Penalties for Acts of Discrimination. - Any person or entity found guilty of
24 
discriminatory practices based on actual or perceived TB status, age, sex, sexual
25 
orientation, gender identity, economic status, disability, and ethnicity, hindering the
26 
effectiveness of the TB response, shall suffer the penalty of not less than one (1) year
27 
but not more than six (6) years imprisonment or a fine of not more than Five Hundred
28 
Thousand Philippine Pesos (PhP500,000.00), or both, in the discretion of the court,
29 
and taking into consideration the circumstances and gravity of the offense."
30 
Sec. 24. A new section denominated as Section 31 of the same act is added
31 
to read as follows:
12


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"Sec. 31. Penalties and Sanctions. - The following penalties and sanctions are hereby
2 
established for offenses enumerated in this Act:
3 
(A) Any person found guilty of violating Section 14 of this Act shall suffer the
4 
penalty of arresto mayor\u its minimum period and a fine of not less than One
5 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred
6 
Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00).
7 
(B)Any person found guilty of violating Section 15 of this Act shall suffer the
8 
penalty of arresto mayor \n its minimum period and a fine of not less than One
9 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred
10 
Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00).
11 
(C)Any person found guilty of violating Section 22 of this Act shall suffer the
12 
penalty of arresto mayor\x\ its minimum period and a fine of not less than One
13 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred
14 
Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00).
15 
(D)Any person found guilty of violating Section 26 of this Act shall suffer the
16 
penalty of arresto mayor\r\ its minimum period and a fine of not less than One
17 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhPlOO,000.00) but not more than Three Hundred
18 
Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00).
19 
(E) Any person found guilty of creating and spreading false information about TB
20 
shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor in its minimum period and a fine of
21 
not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP100,000.00) but not more
22 
than Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP300,000.00)."
23 
Sec. 25. A new section denominated as Section 32 of the same act is added
24 
to read as follows:
25 
"Sec. 32. Celebration of World TB Day. - March 24 shall be designated as World
26 
Tuberculosis (TB) Day in the Philippines. The Department of Health (DOH) shall lead
27 
in the organization of activities and events nationwide to raise awareness about TB,
28 
promote prevention and control measures, and highlight the importance of addressing
29 
TB as a public health priority. LCDs, schools, civil society organizations, and other
30 
relevant stakeholders are encouraged to participate in World TB Day activities to
31 
support efforts in TB control and elimination."
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Sec. 26. A new section denominated as Section 33 of the same act is added
2 
to read as follows:
3 
"Sec. 33. Privileges for TB Patients. - TB patients shall be entitled to a 12% VAT
4 
exemption on food, medications, vitamins, transportation in consideration of the
5 
temporary loss of income while on treatment, subject to the guidelines to be
6 
developed by the Department of Health (DOH) and relevant government agencies.
7 
The DOH shall coordinate with establishments and service providers to ensure the
8 
implementation of these privileges for TB patients."
9 
Sec. 27. A new section denominated as Section 34 of the same act is added
10 
to read as follows:
11 
"Sec. 34. Free Vaccines and Vitamins for TB Patients. - TB patients shall be provided
12 
with free flu and pneumonia vaccines, as well as essential vitamins, to support their
13 
overall health and well-being during the course of their treatment. The Department of
14 
Health (DOH) shall ensure the availability and distribution of these vaccines and
15 
vitamins to TB patients through designated healthcare facilities and programs."
16 
Sec. 28. A new section denominated as Section 35 of the same act is added
17 
to read as follows:
18 
"Sec. 35. Utilization of Separate Funds for TB Treatment in Barangays. - Barangays
19 
shall allocate separate funds specifically designated for the treatment and
20 
management of tuberculosis (TB) within their respective jurisdictions. These funds
21 
shall be utilized to support TB prevention, detection, treatment, and control programs,
22 
including but not limited to, the provision of necessary medications, diagnostic tests,
23 
and healthcare services for TB patients. The barangay health committees shall oversee
24 
the proper allocation and utilization of these funds in accordance with guidelines
25 
provided by the Department of Health (DOH) and other relevant authorities."
26 
Sec. 29. A new section denominated as Section 36 of the same act is added
27 
to read as follows:
28 
"Sec. 36. Continuous Engagement in Development of TB Vaccines and Medications. -
29 
The Department of Health (DOH), through its relevant departments and units, shall
30 
maintain continuous engagement in the research, development, and procurement of
31 
vaccines and other medications for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
32 
tuberculosis (TB). This includes active participation in international collaborations,
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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 
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,
15