Monday, January 28, 2008 City dad pushes for task force to oversee cancer patients
SO the Cebu City Government can be more efficient in helping residents suffering from cancer, a city councilor proposes to create the “Task Force Cancer of Cebu City.”
Councilor Nestor Archival said the City Government needs to act as “overseer” of the various cancer support and advocacy groups that have been established in the city over the years.
“So much has yet to be done in order to increase cancer awareness and understanding among the city residents so that persons with cancer, particularly children, are treated with utmost patience and care,” he said.
Archival proposed last Wednesday the “Ordinance Creating the Task Force for the Protection and Welfare of Persons with Cancer and Providing Funds Therefore,” which was referred to the council committee on laws.
The ordinance, he said, will help make Cebu City a healthy city, one that provides an environment friendly to persons with cancer.
Study
Archival cited a study of the Department of Health that showed that 80 percent of known cancer types result from poor and unhealthy living choices and conditions. Cancer is also said to be lifestyle-related and is the third leading killer disease in the country.
“The need for a multi-sectoral body cannot be overemphasized, certainly a pioneering move for Cebu City as the first local government unit in the country that addresses the concern of persons with cancer,” the councilor said.
Through the ordinance, the City hopes to develop a heightened consciousness and understanding of the advantages of having a healthy lifestyle.
Cooperation
It also hopes to engage the cooperation of all sectors in advocacies on maintaining “a climate that is beneficial to all and to persons with cancer in particular.”
If approved, the task force will operate under the Office of the Mayor.
It will be tasked to formulate a strategic plan towards the promotion of healthy lifestyle and environment in the city.
The task force will also establish an express lane for cancer patients in hospitals and diagnostic clinics whenever they have to avail themselves of laboratory and medical services.
A barangay-based identification system for persons with cancer will also be in place if the ordinance is approved.
The ordinance also comes with an appropriation clause that specifies the amount of P200,000 for initial operating expenses of the task force. Other budgetary requirements for the succeeding years would be included in the annual budget. (LCR)
