Duterte declares 6-month state of calamity due to COVID-19

Updated Tue, March 17, 2020 at 7:33 PM Published Tue, March 17, 2020 at 8:00 AM

President Duterte has declared a nationwide state of calamity for six months to address the increasing number of COVID-19 cases.

This declaration allows government agencies and local government units to utilize resources, including the Quick Response Fund, for disaster preparedness and response efforts against COVID-19.

The proclamation also mobilizes the police and military to maintain peace and order in affected areas.

The enhanced community quarantine in Luzon, implemented from March 17 to April 12, is formally imposed under this new proclamation.

The quarantine measures include strict home quarantine, suspension of public transportation, travel restrictions, and work-from-home arrangements to curb the virus's spread.

The decision to declare a state of calamity was recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

The proclamation acknowledges the continuous rise in COVID-19 cases despite existing government interventions.

President Duterte had previously declared a state of public health emergency due to the outbreak.

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