Gatchalian assures safeguards in Bayanihan Act

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian assured that the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act contains safeguards to prevent abuse and ensure accountability from the Executive branch regarding the use of funds to address the COVID-19 crisis.

The newly signed law grants the President additional powers to combat the effects of COVID-19 and utilize available funds to assist 18 million poor families impacted by the enhanced community quarantine.

Congress implemented two mechanisms for accountability: a congressional oversight committee to monitor fund releases and a three-month time limit for the President's special powers.

The Executive branch is required to provide weekly reports to Congress detailing the allocation and utilization of the budget.

Gatchalian emphasized that the President's special powers are limited to three months and require Congressional approval for any extension, preventing perpetual authority.

He expressed hope that the law would enable the Philippines to effectively control the spread of COVID-19, drawing lessons from the struggles of more progressive countries like Italy.

Gatchalian highlighted the urgency of fighting the virus early to prevent overwhelming hospitals and depleting the healthcare workforce, citing the high number of cases in other nations.