Law Summary
Declaration of State Policy
- The State adopts a proactive role in preventive healthcare for infants and children
- Establishment of a comprehensive, mandatory, and sustainable immunization program for vaccine-preventable diseases, in line with the Philippine Constitution
Education and Information Measures
- Health care practitioners administering prenatal care must educate pregnant women on the importance and possible effects of immunization
- The Department of Health (DOH), government agencies, NGOs, professional, academic societies, and local governments must provide and distribute appropriate informational materials to the public
Obligation to Inform Parents or Guardians
- Before delivery, health providers (physician, nurse, midwife, nursing aide, or skilled birth attendant) must inform parents/legal guardians about the availability, nature, and benefits of immunization against Hepatitis-B and other vaccine-preventable diseases at birth
Continuing Education and Training of Health Personnel
- The DOH, in cooperation with local government units, academe, professional societies, and NGOs, shall undertake continuing education, information dissemination, and training programs
- Training focuses on the rationale, benefits, and modern immunization procedures for infants and children
Funding and Appropriations
- Initial funding is charged against the DOH's current year appropriations for the expanded program on immunization
- Subsequent funding to be included in the annual General Appropriations Act
- Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is mandated to include basic immunization services in its benefits package
Implementation and Regulatory Oversight
- The DOH, in collaboration with the National Immunization Committee, is responsible for issuing implementing rules and regulations within 90 days of the Act's approval
Legal Provisions
- Separability Clause: If any part of the Act is declared unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining parts remain effective
- Repealing Clause: All inconsistent prior laws, decrees, executive orders, rules, and regulations are repealed, amended, or modified accordingly
Effectivity Clause
- The Act takes effect fifteen (15) days following its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two newspapers of general circulation