Congress grants Duterte emergency COVID-19 powers

Congress has granted President Duterte special emergency powers through the "Bayanihan to Heal as One Act of 2020" to address the COVID-19 pandemic.

The law allows the President to reprogram and realign funds from the 2020 national budget to finance necessary COVID-19 response measures.

It also authorizes the allocation of funds and investments from government-owned and controlled corporations and national government agencies for the health crisis.

A key provision includes providing financial assistance, ranging from P5,000 to P8,000 monthly for two months, to approximately 18 million poor and informal sector families affected by the enhanced community quarantine.

The measure also provides P1 million in compensation for public and private health workers who die in the line of duty due to COVID-19 and covers their medical expenses.

The President can also temporarily direct the operations of privately owned hospitals and other establishments for use as quarantine areas or temporary housing for health workers.

Furthermore, the law allows for the expedited procurement of essential medical supplies and equipment, exempting them from usual government procurement laws.

Businesses can be required to prioritize and accept contracts for materials and services necessary for the COVID-19 response.

The President is empowered to take measures against hoarding, profiteering, and other pernicious practices affecting the supply and distribution of essential goods.

The Philippine Red Cross may be engaged as an auxiliary humanitarian agency for aid distribution, subject to reimbursement.