Duterte signs law granting special powers for COVID-19

President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act 11469, or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, granting him special powers to address the coronavirus pandemic.

The law declares a state of national emergency and grants Duterte authority for three months unless extended by Congress.

It requires weekly reports on fund utilization related to the measure.

Lawmakers removed controversial provisions on business takeover and unconstitutional budget provisions during its drafting.

The bill was passed after a marathon special session in Congress on Monday, March 23.