Title
Source: Supreme Court
Extension of COVID-19 State of Calamity
Law
Proclamation No. 1021
Decision Date
Sep 16, 2020
Rodrigo Roa Duterte extends the State of Calamity nationwide for one year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, enabling government agencies to utilize necessary funds and resources for disaster response and public health measures.

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.

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