State of calamity (Philippines)
A state of calamity in the Philippines is a condition declared by the President of the Philippines or by local government units (LGUs) in specific areas when there is widespread or extraordinary damage to life and/or property due to natural disasters, accidents, or other public calamities. The declaration allows the government to implement measures to rapidly assist affected communities and mitigate the impact of the calamity.
Declaration and Scope
The declaration of a state of calamity can be made at the national, regional, or local level, depending on the scale and impact of the event. The President, upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), can declare a national state of calamity. LGUs, through their respective councils, can declare a state of calamity within their jurisdictions.
The declaration specifies the geographical area(s) affected and the duration of the state of calamity, which can be extended if necessary.
Legal Basis
The legal basis for declaring a state of calamity in the Philippines is primarily derived from:
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Republic Act No. 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010) - This act outlines the roles and responsibilities of various government agencies and LGUs in disaster risk reduction and management, including the declaration of a state of calamity.
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Presidential Decree No. 1566 (Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Control Capability and Establishing the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), now the NDRRMC) - This decree provides the framework for disaster preparedness and response.
Effects of Declaration
The declaration of a state of calamity triggers a series of measures designed to alleviate the suffering of affected populations and facilitate recovery. These measures typically include:
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Price Control: Imposition of price ceilings on basic necessities and prime commodities to prevent hoarding and profiteering.
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Access to Calamity Funds: Allows LGUs to utilize their calamity funds for relief, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts without the usual bureaucratic constraints.
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Suspension of Loan Payments: May allow for the suspension of loan payments for affected individuals and businesses.
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Mobilization of Resources: Facilitates the mobilization of government resources, including personnel, equipment, and supplies, to affected areas.
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International Assistance: Can pave the way for seeking international aid and assistance.
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Increased Police Authority: Allows for the deployment of additional police and military personnel to maintain peace and order and prevent looting.
Termination of Declaration
A state of calamity is lifted when the conditions that led to its declaration have subsided and the affected areas are no longer considered to be in imminent danger. The decision to lift the declaration is made by the same authority that declared it, based on the assessment of the situation by relevant government agencies and LGUs.