Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 929)
The State of Calamity was declared under the powers vested in the President of the Philippines by the Constitution and existing laws, specifically referencing Republic Act No. 10121, the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.
The State of Calamity is declared for a period of six (6) months, unless it is earlier lifted or extended as circumstances may warrant.
The Enhanced Community Quarantine was imposed throughout Luzon, beginning at midnight on the date of the proclamation and lasting until April 12, 2020, unless earlier lifted or extended.
All government agencies and LGUs are enjoined to provide full assistance and cooperate with each other by mobilizing resources to undertake critical, urgent, and appropriate disaster response measures in a timely manner to curtail and eliminate the threat of Covid-19.
Law enforcement agencies, supported by the AFP, are directed to take necessary measures to ensure peace and order in affected areas as may be necessary under the State of Calamity.
The Executive Secretary, the Secretary of Health, and all other concerned heads of departments are directed to issue the implementing guidelines for the Enhanced Community Quarantine throughout Luzon.
The Quick Response Fund, as authorized under the State of Calamity, allows the National Government and LGUs to utilize appropriate funds promptly for disaster preparedness and response efforts to contain Covid-19 and continue providing basic services.
Section 15, Article II of the Philippine Constitution, which states that it is the State’s policy to protect and promote the right to health of the people, is cited as a basis for the proclamation.
It references Proclamation No. 922, series of 2020, which declared a State of Public Health Emergency throughout the Philippines due to Covid-19.