Duterte submits first COVID-19 report to Congress

President Rodrigo Duterte submitted his first report to Congress on government measures to respond to the COVID-19 crisis, as mandated by the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles confirmed the submission after Duterte's public address detailing government efforts and plans.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon expressed dissatisfaction with the report, stating it lacks details on a comprehensive COVID financial package.

Drilon questioned whether the government has augmented the health workforce and noted that no special purpose funds were tapped for COVID-19 measures, except for a P500 million replenishment of the DOH's quick response fund.

The report indicated that agencies were urged to use existing appropriations from the FY 2019 and 2020 General Appropriations Act for response activities.

The Bayanihan Act grants the President special powers for three months to address the COVID-19 crisis, including budget realignment and the provision of subsidies.