Law Summary
Role of Government and Non-Governmental Organizations
- Government agencies and NGOs provide insights into the needs and sensitivities of affected individuals
- They contribute to policy formulation and program development on HIV/AIDS
- NGOs have contracts with and access to communities, enabling special impact on awareness and care
Establishment of a National AIDS Policy Framework
- Need for a national policy body to address the multidimensional impact of AIDS
- Focus on effective intervention programs to prevent HIV spread and minimize social impact
- Recognition of the epidemic’s early stage as an opportunity for prevention
Creation and Composition of the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC)
- Department of Health (DOH) tasked to lead the creation and establishment of PNAC
- PNAC to be a multi-sectoral national committee including representatives from government departments and NGOs
- Government agencies involved include Education, Labor, Justice, Tourism, Local Government, Budget and Management, Social Welfare, Foreign Affairs
- NGOs, private volunteer groups, professional associations and advocacy groups are included
- PNAC’s functions: advise the President on HIV/AIDS policy, ensure no conflicting laws impede strategy, collaborate to reduce stigma and discrimination
Leadership and Structure of the PNAC
- Chaired by the Secretary of Health or representative
- Vice-Chairman is the Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority
- Chair may invite agencies or organizations as permanent members or resource persons
- Sub-committees may be formed for specific policy reviews and program recommendations
Responsibilities and Calls to Action for NGOs and Other Interested Parties
- Coordinate activities with government bodies working on HIV/AIDS
- Adapt responses sensitively and appropriately to local conditions
- Mobilize and manage resources effectively to maximize impact
- Contribute to prevention and control programs especially in primary health care and community development
Legal Authority and Executive Mandate
- Issued under the constitutional and legal powers of the President of the Philippines
- Establishment of PNAC as a policy and advisory body in HIV/AIDS prevention and control
These points capture the essential provisions, organizational structure, roles, and policy objectives provided by the Executive Order to comprehensively address the HIV/AIDS epidemic through multisectoral efforts in the Philippines.