Robredo suggests periodic assessments of COVID-19 response

Vice President Leni Robredo suggested that periodic assessments of the country's COVID-19 response would be more beneficial than extending the state of calamity until September 12, 2021.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque stated that the Duterte administration has been conducting periodic assessments, pointing to reports from the Department of Health and submissions to Congress.

Roque suggested Robredo could consult the DOH webpage and the Office of the President's reports to Congress pursuant to Bayanihan 1 and Bayanihan 2 for information on the government's progress.

President Rodrigo Duterte previously said the state of calamity could be lifted or extended as circumstances warrant.

Duterte cited the need to continue channeling funds for pandemic response and providing basic services as reasons for the potential extension.

Roque mentioned that the state of calamity would likely be lifted once vaccines and effective medicines for COVID-19 are available.