Lacson wants COVID-19 plan with transparent fund disbursement

Senator Panfilo M. Lacson is urging the Executive branch to create a comprehensive, overall plan to combat COVID-19, emphasizing transparency in fund disbursement.

He recommended the establishment of a National Strategic Plan as the basis for a National Action Plan, similar to an OPLAN.

Lacson suggested that the Filipino people should be the first line of defense, followed by law enforcers and implementing agencies, with health workers as the third and last line of defense.

He also called for a clearer picture of the COVID-19 situation, including testing numbers, economic impact, and adaptation strategies, in the Executive's next report to Congress.

The Senator pointed out the absence of specific action plans for the three priority programs mentioned by the President and warned that this lack of planning could undermine the urgency of RA 11469.

Lacson criticized the perceived lack of preparedness in executing the powers granted by the Bayanihan Act, despite Congress's swift approval.

He stressed the need for clear guidelines on the use of rapid test kits, following FDA approval, to facilitate supervised mass testing by LGUs.

Prioritizing the immediate implementation of the Special Risk Allowance and other benefits for both public and private health workers, especially those infected or deceased, was also highlighted.