WHEREAS, the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them;

WHEREAS, scoliosis is a progressive non-communicable disorder characterized by the lateral curvature of the spine, which can be corrected to prevent serious and even fatal complications;

WHEREAS, scoliosis affects a considerable portion of the world population, including the Philippines, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, socio-economic status and sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, the "Scoliosis Awareness Month" is recognized by millions of people worldwide and is celebrated annually every June, to unite people across the globe and create positive public awareness of scoliosis, promote early detection and intervention for the treatment thereof, and bring together those affected;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby declare the month of June of every year as "Scoliosis Awareness Month."

The Department of Health (DOH), in coordination with relevant non government organizations, shall promote the observance of the Scoliosis Awareness Month, and identify the programs, projects and activities for the yearly celebration thereof.

All other agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, are hereby directed, and all local government units, as well as the private sector, are hereby encouraged, to cooperate with the DOH in advocating and implementing programs and activities pursuant to this Proclamation.

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

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 8th day of November , in the year of our Lord, Two Thousand and Eighteen.

(SGD.) RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

By the President:

(SGD.) SALVADOR C. MEDIALDEA
Executive Secretary