WHEREAS, it is the National Policy to protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them;

WHEREAS, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) has caused an alarming number of deaths, monitored by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have totaled one hundred forty-four (144) in twenty three (23) countries believed to be SARS-infected or suspected of having probable cases of SARS as of 14 April 2003;

WHEREAS, it has become essential and timely to develop an integrated and comprehensive health plan to combat SARS or reduce the number of SARS cases reported;

WHEREAS, the dissemination of accurate information about SARS and its prevention is vital and should be undertaken at the soonest possible time, while health and social services are rendered responsive to the country and its people's health needs and problems;

WHEREAS, the negative impact of SARS on business productivity, tourism and mobility of citizens has become astoundingly evident; and

WHEREAS, addressing this concern may be efficiently undertaken through the joint efforts of the national and local government through the Department of Health and Department of Interior and Local Government.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare May 05 to 09, 2003, as National Anti-SARS Consciousness and Clean-Up Week.

The Department of Health and the Department of Interior and Local Government shall jointly lead the campaign and issue appropriate circulars for the implementation of this Proclamation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila this 24th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, two thousand and three.


By the President:

(Sgd.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO
Executive Secretary