Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2) — President Rodrigo Duterte will call for a special session of Congress to pass another law that will grant him special powers for coronavirus response, Malacañang said Thursday.
Earlier, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the measure can be tackled after the regular session resumes on July 27 in time for Duterte’s fourth State of the Nation Address.
The plan has changed, Roque said, citing a statement from Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez that a special session is needed.
“Kaya po binalita ko na magpapatawag ng special session ngayon pong mukhang plantsado na ‘yung magiging laman ng Bayanihan 2 legislation,” Roque said.
[Translation: That’s why I announced the calling of a special session, it seems that the contents of the Bayanihan 2 legislation seems ready.]
Roque said there’s no schedule for the special session yet. The bill being proposed by the economic cluster provides for a ₱140 billion stimulus package, which will be used in recovering from the economic impact of the coronavirus disease, which has infected more than 38,000 people nationwide.
The proposed Bayanihan 2 law is patterned after the original Bayanihan to Heal As One Act which granted the President special authority to adjust fund allocations under the 2019 and 2020 budgets for coronavirus response. The measure also provided for extra benefits to health care workers especially those who got infected with the disease, and fast-tracked the purchase and importation of medical equipment.
This law expired on June 24. The Senate earlier passed on second reading its version of the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act, but it adjourned without approving the measure after Malacañang did not certify it as urgent.
READ: SC junks petition vs. constitutionality of Bayanihan Act
