Palace: Duterte's emergency powers to be used constitutionally

Malacañang assured the public that President Duterte's standby powers, granted by the newly passed 'Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,' will be exercised strictly in accordance with the Constitution.

The 'Bayanihan to Heal as One Act' places the country under a state of emergency for three months and grants the President additional powers to combat the coronavirus outbreak.

These powers include the realignment of the national budget and the direction of private hospitals, hotels, and transport firms to augment medical facilities and services.

The bill also establishes a two-month emergency subsidy program for approximately 18 million poor families affected by the Luzon lockdown.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo highlighted the bill's role in enabling swift and efficient implementation of measures against COVID-19, such as effective detection, testing, and protection for health workers.

The measure allows the President to direct establishments to serve as temporary housing for health workers, quarantine areas, or aid distribution centers.

Furthermore, it ensures the availability of essential goods like food and medicine and protects consumers from illegal practices related to their supply and distribution.

The President can also extend statutory deadlines for government requirements and provide grace periods for loan and rent payments under the act.

Panelo urged the public to be cautious of rumors and false news intended to create panic during this emergency period.