Recto files bill to extend Bayanihan Act to September

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto has filed Senate Bill No. 1561, proposing an extension of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act until September 30, 2020, and granting President Duterte additional powers for COVID-19 recovery.

The bill seeks to extend the validity of the Bayanihan Act, which originally provided the President with special powers to address the pandemic, including the authority to realign funds from the 2019 and 2020 national budgets.

SB 1561 includes provisions for wage and tuition subsidies for displaced workers and students, cash assistance for private school personnel, and extended support for agri-fishery enterprises.

It also proposes a directive for financial institutions and utility companies to implement extended payment schemes and installment plans for loans, credit card bills, and utility bills without incurring additional interest or penalties until December 31, 2020.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the DICT to expedite the deployment of critical ICT infrastructure to improve digital connectivity, internet speed, and cybersecurity for various online services.

A significant aspect of the bill is the proposed P600 billion recovery program, which would provide the President with standby spending authority for various initiatives.

This recovery program includes funding for emergency subsidies, a cash-for-work program, enhancement of public healthcare institutions, large-scale COVID-19 testing, capital infusion for government banks to support MSMEs, and support programs for various affected sectors.

The bill aims to support disrupted economic activities, facilitate re-employment, and develop stronger mechanisms for future disease outbreak prevention and control.

Recto emphasized that these interventions are designed to mitigate the effects of a projected economic downturn and accelerate the country's socioeconomic recovery.