Law Summary
Original Declaration of State of Calamity
- Proclamation No. 929, s. 2020 declared a State of Calamity throughout the Philippines on March 16, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The initial proclamation was set for six (6) months unless lifted or extended based on circumstances.
Rationale for Extension
- Despite governmental and public efforts, COVID-19 cases and fatalities continued to rise, necessitating further action.
- The extension allows for continued access to appropriate funds and resources at the national and local levels.
Legal Authority for Extension
- The extension is pursuant to Republic Act No. 10121, known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.
- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council recommended the extension based on prevailing conditions.
Scope and Duration of the Extension
- The State of Calamity is extended nationwide for one (1) year, effective from September 13, 2020, to September 12, 2021.
- The extension may be lifted or further extended depending on the evolving situation.
Implications and Powers Under the State of Calamity
- Government agencies and Local Government Units (LGUs) are authorized to utilize funds including the Quick Response Fund for disaster preparedness and response.
- Authorities can implement measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, control prices of basic necessities and prime commodities, and provide basic services to affected populations.
Responsibilities and Directives to Government Entities
- All government agencies and LGUs are mandated to collaborate and mobilize resources to effectively respond to the emergency.
- Law enforcement agencies, supported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, are directed to maintain peace and order in affected areas.
Objective and Purpose
- The extension aims to facilitate continuous, critical, and timely deployment of disaster response measures to curtail and eliminate the threat posed by COVID-19.
Formalization
- The proclamation is signed by the President of the Philippines and executed in Manila on September 16, 2020, with the official seal affixed.