The possibility of extending the state of calamity in the Philippines due to Covid-19 is “very small,” according to Department of Health (DOH) officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire.
“The state of calamity has that very small probability na lang na it can be extended at baka hindi na nga ma-extend,” Vergeire said during a press briefing.
One of the issues that could happen if the state of calamity will not continue is that the emergency use authorization of Covid-19 drugs and vaccines will no longer be valid, Vergeire added.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 922 in March 2020, declaring a state of public health emergency in the country due to the new coronavirus outbreak.
The proclamation states that the state of public health emergency could “remain in force and effect until lifted or withdrawn by the President.”
Duterte also issued a separate proclamation declaring a state of calamity in the Philippines due to Covid-19.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. extended the declaration of the state of calamity only until December 31, 2022. Marcos, Jr. showed his hesitancy in extending the state of calamity.
— Ronald Espartinez