NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
SENATE 
S. No. 1119
of ti!? •#'i'
72 AUG-9 P5:45
Rl'CElVci) BV.
Introduced by Senator Loren B. Legarda
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING ELBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL 
STANDARDS AND SAFEGUARDS FOR THE BETTER NORMAL IN 
THE WORKPLACE, PUBLIC PLACES AND COMMUNITIES 
TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE RECOVERY FROM THE 
CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) PANDEMIC AND OTHER 
<;T1UTT AR TNTFFrTTOT tq DISEASES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The corona virus disease (COVID-19), which was declared a global pandemic 
by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, has quickly become the most 
urgent crisis of our time. It has rapidly affected the daily routines of citizens and their 
businesses and has caused immense disruptions in the way we interact with one 
another.
Among COVID-19's long-term effects, how it has changed the way we use and 
interact in public spaces may be the most enduring. Mails, offices, schools, restaurants, 
and other pubHc spaces pose a greater risk of the spread of the virus. Indeed, COVID- 
19 has pushed communities to adapt to a new normal that has completely changed 
the way we use pubhc spaces and connect with one another.
AxS we reopen public spaces and return to "normal" operations, advances that
will ensure the safety of the people engaging within these spaces need to be made. In


this new normal, it is the government's primary role to educate the Filipino pubhc 
and assist them in adapting to Mfe after the lifting of COVID-19 restiictions.
This bill, therefore, seeks to institutionalize universal and mandatory health 
and environmental standards in public spaces. This includes monitoring the 
implementation of these standards, and the management and regulation of 
nment and privately managed public spaces, public transportation, schools.
and learning institutions, and private commercial and industrial workplaces. By 
utilizing a whole-of-society approach, tins biU aims to protect the most vulnerable, 
and ensure the health and safety of every Fihpino, while guaranteeing the economic 
well-being of all sectors and industries. It is hoped that this proposed measure will 
usher in an inclusive, holistic, and well-planned path toward a "better normal".
)f the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA


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NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF IHE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S. No.
)
SENATE
1119
72 AUG-9 P5:45
Introduced by Senator Loren B. Legarda
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL 
STANDARDS AND SAFEGUARDS FOR THE BETTER NORMAL IN 
THE WORKPLACE, PUBLIC PLACES AND COMMUNITIES 
TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE RECOVERY FROM THE 
CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) PANDEMIC AND OTHER 
SIMILAR INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Republic of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
Section. 1. Short Title, - This Act shall be known as the "Better Normal for the 
Workplace, Communities and Public Spaces Act of2022".
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is the policy of the State to protect and promote 
the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. The 
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State shall also protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful
ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.
Towards this end, the State, in order to help save lives as well as jumpstart the 
economy, shall:
(a) Adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to public health and 
environmental policies and regulations during a pandemic, thus, 
ensuring the overall well-being of individuals, communities, industrial 
and natural ecosystems. Consideration shall be paid to valuing the 
services provided by ecosystems and biodiversity in generating the 
direction and prescriptions for a better normal and in assessing their 
success;


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(b) Institute appropriate public health, safety, and security measures to
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stem the transmission of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) or
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similar diseases that may result in any kind of pandemic;
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(c) Regulate, institute, and establish standards and protocols tliat would
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simultaneously protect the vulnerable from COVID-19 and prevent its
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transmission;
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for aU, especially the poor, in the event of widespread disease outbreak
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and the resulting slowdown of economic activity, and building adaptive
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capacity and resilience for future shocks;
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(e) Pursue universal broadband access for aU to ensure a better normal in
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recognition of the crucial role of a strong information and
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communications teclmology (ICT) system to close the digital divide and
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that the need for modern and innovative UCT cuts across all sectors of
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society;
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(f) Ensure that pandemic recovery will lead to a greener, resilient, inclusive,
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and sustainable future, hence, recovery needs should be addressed with
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long-term sustainability goals; and
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(g) Give importance to other aspects of well-being of the people based on
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the Gross National Happiness indicators, namely, equitable and
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sustainable socio-economic development, the preservation and
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promotion of cultural values, the conservation of the natural
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environment, and the establishment of good governance.
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In adopting the whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach and
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recognizing the need for innovation and more- forward-thinking systems and
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approaches, the State shall give priority to the needs of the underprivileged, sick,
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elderly, persons with disabihty, indigenous peoples, women, and children.
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Sec. 3. Objectives, - This Act shall have the following objectives:
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(a) Define and allocate roles, responsibihties, and obligations across key
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sectors of the society that shall be heavily involved in the
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implementation of specific and apphcable measures, namely, the


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national government and its instrumentalities, local government, 
private sector, and individual Filipino citizens;
(b) Identify standards and protocols in the management of physical spaces, 
both publicly-owned and -managed, or privately-owned but are 
designated communal spaces, and prescribe the allowed and prohibited 
activities therein as well as behaviors expected and required of the
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(c) Facilitate the development of the necessary systems and infrastructure 
and the enhancement of existing ones so as to ensure that the ICT needs 
of the better normal are accessible to aU, making it possible for people 
and organizations to practice appropriate behavior and decisions as well 
as for relevant government agencies to implement relevant, effective, 
and timely information dissemination;
(d) Establish systems of accountability for failure to comply with the 
obhgations and expectations prescribed under this Act;
(e) Provide inclusive operational parameters, guideHnes, and 
recommendations for a better way of life until such time that the thi'eat 
of COVID-19 virus and other similar diseases that caused the occurrence 
of a pandemic is effectively contained;
(f) Mitigate, if not contain, the transmission of the virus and undertake 
measures to prevent the overburdening of the public healthcare system;
(g) Continue health promotion and behavior-enhancing measures in all 
levels of government and the private sector; and
(h) Accelerate transfonnational change to restore the balance among 
human, socio-economic and natural ecosystems, and reduce risk and 
vulnerability to future crises caused by climate change, natural hazards 
and man-made disasters.
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shall be implemented so that economic and social activities can proceed in a manner 
that ensures pubHc health, safety, and security during an epidemic or pandemic, and 
until such time that the same and its immediate impacts are declared eradicated by 
the authorized National Government agency or agencies of the government.


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The organization, operation, and activities in workplaces, communities, and
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public spaces shall be governed by the provisions of this Act.
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Sec. 5. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act:
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(a) Agro-ecology refers to the application of ecological and social principles
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in the formulation and implementation of policies and programs on
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food and agricultural systems, to maximize the benefits from the
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synergy between plants, animals, humans and the environment to
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achieve a resilient and sustainable food supply system;
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(b) Better normal in the context of recoveiy from an epidemic or pandemic
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refers to transformative behaviors and interventions informed by
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science, that address the imderlying vulnerabilities of people and
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communities that the epidemic or pandemic has highlighted and fosters
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a just and equitable transition to a climate-resilient, inclusive and
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(c) Better Normal Workforce and Workplace Management Plan (hereinafter
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referred to as the "Management Plan") refers to the management plan
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of all public and private sector entities that conforms to the prescribed
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measures and protocols under this Act to mitigate the spread of the
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COVID-19 virus and other kinds of viruses that may be transmitted
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through contact in the workplace;
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(d) Circular Economy Measures refer to measures that place value on
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products and materials, maintaining their use for as long as possible,
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thus minimizing wastage and resource use, and keeping resources
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within the economy when a product has reached the end of its hfe, to be
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used again and again to create further value;
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(e) Culture Mapping refers to the approach used to identify, record, and use
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natural and cultural resources and activities for building communities.
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It is a set of activihes and processes for exploring, discovering,
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documenting, examining, analyzing, interpreting, presenting, and
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sharing of information related to people, communities, societies, places,
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bunt and natural heritage, material products and practices associated
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with them;


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services and other recreational or leisure places, such as cinema halls, 
theaters, cockpits, and spas;
(l) Workplace refers to a place where work is carried out for a business 
undertaking and includes any place where a worker goes, or is likely to 
be, while carrying out a work-related task; and
(m) Zoonotic Disease refers to a disease that can be transmitted from animals
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Sec. 6. Standards for a Better Normal. - In order to stem the transmission of 
COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, and protect the people from such diseases, 
the following standards for the better normal shall be observed:
(A) Universal and Mandatory Health and Safety Measures -
(1) Basic personal hygiene shall be strictly observed by the general 
pubhc. Massive health information drive shall be conducted by the
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in cooperation with the private sector, on COVID-19 to instill public 
awareness on the risks of infection and possible reinfection of the 
disease;
(2) The general public shall wear face masks, eaiioop masks, 
indigenous, reusable or do-it-yourself masks, face shields, 
handkerchiefs, or such other protective material or equipment that 
effectively lessen the transmission of the COVID 19 virus whenever 
they are in the workplace, public places, and communities: Provided, 
That the government shall implement the free distribution of masks 
to the general pubHc to guarantee the full cooperation of every 
citizen: Provided, further, That the government shall allocate funds to 
ensure the free provision of personal protective equipment and other 
medical commodities to COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients in 
both public and private hospitals: Provided, furthermore. That the 
government shall integrate circular economy strategies in the 
procurement of materials or the development of mechanisms for 
hygiene and sanitation;


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(3) Hand washing facilities or sanitizing stations shall be established 
and maintained by the owners, managers, or administrators of 
pubHc spaces, workplaces, and other places frequented by the 
public;
(4) Physical distancing measured at least one (1) meter between 
individuals shall be strictly observed whenever in public spaces and
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(5) Temperature reading of persons shall be conducted by the owners, 
managers, or administrators of workplaces and in aU enclosed, semi- 
enclosed, and open areas where two (2) or more people shall gather;
(6) The DOH, in coordination with other government agencies and the 
private sector, shall conduct an information and educational 
campaign utilizing traditional and online media to disseminate 
relevant medical and health information, provide updates on local 
cases and initiatives of the goverimient: Provided, That all 
government agencies are directed to create a communication plan for 
the better normal to articulate the poHcies and interventions to be 
adopted by the agencies for the information and compliance of their 
employees, mcluding the placement of relevant on-site signages and 
online information materials which will serve as reminders to 
observe physical distancing, practice regular handwashing, and to
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frequently clean and sanitize surroundings;
(7) Local chief executives of LGUs wliich are considered as containment 
zones or critical zones for the transmission of COVlD-19 shall 
establish testing centers and procure CO VlD-19 testing kits, personal 
protective equipment, and such other necessary equipment and 
supplies to be used for the conduct of mass-testing of the population 
in their respective jurisdictions, including the establishment of drive 
through testing centers, md other contactless modes of testing for 
the detection of the COVID-19 or other infectious diseases;
(8) There shall be nationwide testing drive to prepare for future waves 
of infection surges or other epidemic. The minimum rate of testing


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shall be one percent (1%) of the population of the province or city, in 
the case of independent cities, and shall target to finish testing 
residents within ten (10) days;
(9) The DOH, with assistance from LGUs and Department of the Interior 
and Local Government (DILG), shall conduct tracing of individuals 
who have had contact with or have been exposed to a person who 
has been confirmed positive for the COVID 19 or similar infectious 
diseases. The DOH shall also conduct contact tracing for individuals 
suspected of or probably afflicted with the disease to ensure prompt 
containment of the disease;
(10) The DOH shall establish and manage government-operated and - 
maintained quarantine facihties for individuals who are suspected 
of being infected or have tested positive for COVID-19 or other
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by the Inter-Agency Task Force (lATF) for the Management of 
Emerging Infectious Diseases and/or as prescribed under DOH 
regulations, should undergo mandatory quarantine, including those 
who are not able to observe quarantine protocols in their respective 
places of residences;
(11) Local chief executives of LGUs shall continuously implement 
existing measures, including quarantine measures, in dealing with 
residents or other individuals in the locality manifesting COVID-19 
symptoms, or who has been classified as a suspect, probable, or a 
confirmed case of COVID-19 infection by authorized testing or 
medical facilities;
(12) The National Government shall establish and implement infection 
prevention and control protocol, biosafety and waste management
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(13) Local chief executives of LGUs shall continuously monitor the level 
of transmission among residents in their jurisdiction; Provided, That 
the standards provided in Republic Act No. 10173, otherwise known 
as the "Data Privacy Act of 2012", as well as legal and ethical


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standards, and existing DOH guidelines are observed and complied 
with;
(14)The National Government shall recognize the vulnerabilities of 
certain sectors of the population such as the elderly, pregnant, 
children and persons deprived of Hberty, and shall provide 
safeguards and assistance to them, including access to mental and
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(15)Government offices and the owners, managers, or administrators of 
workplaces and other places fi’equented by the pubhc shall 
implement regular cleaning and disinfection of transport 
conveyances, terminals and similar facihties including elevators and 
escalators, particularly frequently touched surfaces thereat;
(B) Management of Spaces -
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(1) Public gatherings are prohibited subject to the exceptions as may 
provided under the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of this 
Act;
(2) LGUs shall regulate pubHc gatherings as well as the flow of people 
in government-managed public spaces, subject to the guidelines set 
in the IRR of this Act that will provide the limitations on such public 
gathering in order to prevent disease transmission: Providedf That 
activities of agencies of the National Government or their provincial 
or regional offices involved in the dehvery of services or distribution 
of all forms of public assistance or the facilitation thereof shall in no 
way be impeded nor be required a permit from any government 
authority: Provided, further, That gatherings under this category shall 
obsei've the Universal and Mandatory Safety Measures enumerated 
in paragraph (A) of this Section: Provided, furthermore. That LGUs, in
consultation with the private sector stakeholders, shall provide the 
national, regional, and provincial agencies and their attached offices 
the necessary assistance to carry out their activities requiring the 
participation of a significant number of the population:
presence or


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Provided, finally, That exceptions to these prohibitions, intended for 
public purpose or interest, shall be provided by the IRR of this Act;
(3) Privately-organized gatherings in privately-managed spaces shall 
comply with the Universal and Mandatory Safety Measures 
prescribed under this Act, the guidelines set forth in the IRR of this 
Act, as well as minimum health standards, safety protocols and best
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by the appropriate implementing agencies: Provided, That such 
guidelines shall consider the nature of the gathering, number of 
expected attendees, size of the venue, and other reasonable 
parameters that will ensure compliance with physical distancing and 
other measures to prevent transmission of the virus;
(4) Land use planning and zoning shall be strictly observed in the
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(5) Management of spaces shall likewise include the establishment of 
urban gardens, and green spaces not only for people to enjoy a clean 
and healthy environment, but also to enable them to grow their own 
sources of food and nutrition.
(C) Management of Public Transportation -
(1) The appropriate government agencies shall monitor the 
implementation of the Universal and >»landatory Safet}r Measures in 
the management of public transportation terminals and facilities, 
including queuing or ticketing lines, ticketing offices, as well as the 
interiors of public utility vehicles, mass transportations, and private 
vehicles covered by application-based transportation network 
sei’vices, and by their respective drivers, conductors and passengers; 
Provided, That the government shall shoulder the costs of mandatory 
COVID19 testing in the public transportation sector;
(2) The operation of motorcycle taxis shall remain suspended to prevent 
the spread of the virus through shared helmets and close physical 
contact between passengers and drivers;
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(3) Passengers in all types of pubHc transportation vehicles shall be 
required to sanitize their hands prior to boarding the vehicle, shall 
be seated a seat apart and wear face masks while inside the vehicle;
(4) Contactless payment mechanisms shall be promoted such as the use 
of money trays and automatic fare collection systems to minimize 
the risk of transmission of the COVID-19 virus;
(5) Agencies and authorities tasked to manage transport hubs such as 
airports, ports, harbors, and similar facihties shall coordinate with 
the concerned LGUs in the implementation of the Universal and 
Mandatory Safety Measures herein provided and shall consider the 
following special measures:
• Establishment of public health corridors in airports and 
ports;
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Mandatory body temperatitre reading for all arriving 
and departing passengers;
• Mandatory quarantine at home or in an authorized 
government facility for all arriving passengers;
• Mandatory collection of data for the maintenance of a 
database of information for contact-tracing purposes 
only;
• Thorough sanitizing and disinfection of aU arriving and 
departing vessels;
• Mandatory regular testing of all employees, personnel, 
staff, and crew attached to vessels and tliose who have 
assisted passengers; and
• Mandatory conduct of rapid testing for arriving and 
departing passengers.
(6) The Department of Transportation (DOTr) shall craft and implement 
programs that wiU help modes of public transport, such as jeepneys 
and pubhc buses, to transition to better normal in consideration of 
the health and safety protocols v^-athout requurmg them to commit to 
the government's public utility vehicle modernization program. Tlie
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agency shall also ensure the smooth operation of different modes of 
public and mass transport while upholding existing health and 
safety protocols;
(7) National Government authorities in coordination with the 
stakeholders of the transport sector shall establish dedicated lanes 
along roads, avenues, highways, and other transport infrastructure 
networks to give priority to healthcare, emergency7, peace and order, 
and supply-chain vehicles transporting individuals, goods, 
equipment, or those used in the pursuit of services deemed essential 
and critical: Provided, That pursuant to the provisions of Section 
21(d) of Republic Act No. 8749, otherwise known as the "Clean Air 
Act", the DOTr shall ensure that vehicles strictly comply with current 
emission standards; and
(8) To promote safe physical distancing and sustainable mobility, LGUs 
and appropriate government development authorities having 
jurisdiction over roadways or highways, in coordination with the 
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Metro 
Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in the case of the National 
Capital Region (NCR), shall immediately create green lanes which 
are dedicated, protected and interconnected lanes for personal 
mobilitv7 devices such as bicycles, e-bicyc!es, scooters, and similar 
micromobile devices: Provided, That personal mobility users shall 
observe safe physical distancing and speeds prescribed by the LGUs 
or relevant regional development agencies. Bicycle racks and secure 
bicycle parking sheds and spaces shall be established in government 
offices, hospitals, pubHc schools and higher education institutions, 
and other facilities. Changing and shower rooms shall be promoted
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micromobile commuting: Provided, further. That the DOTr, DPWH 
and LGUs shall ensure that these dedicated and interconnected lanes 
for bicycles and micromobihty devices are included in current and 
future road projects.
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(D) Better Normal for Schools and Education Institutions -
(1) To give priority to the health, well-being and safety of the education 
sector, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission 
on Higher Education (CHED) are authorized to determine the start 
of the academic year 2022 to 2023 for all public and private schools, 
state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges 
(LUCs), private colleges and universities, and other learning 
institutions;
(2) All public and private education institutions including private and 
pubhc universities and colleges shall formulate, develop and adopt 
a flexible learning approach which is designed to meet students' 
needs, capabihties of faculty members and conditions on the ground, 
ensuring accessibilify and inclusivit>r and Vvdthout prejudice to the 
adoption of measures for online learning;
(3) The DepEd shall develop, implement and promote a flexible 
learning program for K-12 students in aU public and private schools, 
taking into consideration the capability of the school and its teachers 
in dehvering such program, and the accessibility of learning 
materials, either physical or electronic, to the students. The flexible 
learning program shall be geared towards limiting physical contact 
among the school population and minimizing the impact on the 
potential for learning and instruction between learners and teachers 
and upgrading or improving the quality of electronic and digital 
content to be made available in cases where online or distance 
learning modaHties are pursued: Provided, That students shall not be 
penalized for their inability to access and participate in electronic or 
digital means of learning due to limitations in connectivity, 
tmavailability of equipment or other circumstances caused by the 
COVID-19 pandemic: Provided, further. That, television (TV) and 
radio programs done in partnership between DepEd, National 
Council for Cliildren Television, National Commission for Culture
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and the Arts and its attached agencies. Film Development Council of 
the Philippines, Philippine Sports Commission, Early Childhood 
Community Development Center, higher education institutions 
(HEls) and pertinent cooperatives and organizations, and with the 
assistance of licensed TV and radio broadcast stations shall serve as 
alternative platforms for learning;
{4} The CITED shall monitor the implementation of flexible learning 
programs for all HEls, SUCs and LCDs. HEls shall continue to 
exercise academic freedom and levels of autonomy in the 
governance of their own academic affairs: Provided, That students 
shall not be penalized for their inability to access or participate in 
electronic or digital means of learning due to limitations in 
connectivity or imavailability of equipment;
(5) The National Government shall allocate funding for the research, 
haining of faculty, curriculum development, monitoring and 
evaluating, benchmarking, and the development of systems for 
learning continuity during times of crisis, such as the occurrence of 
a pandemic. Such funding shall be made available by the National 
Government, from the existing budgetary allocation for the K-12 and 
other similar programs, and made available to HEls, including those 
organized as stock corporations, local research institutes, academic 
organizations, LGUs, school boards, and individual researchers 
through an application process to be prescril>ed by the DepEd and 
the CHED: Provided, That for the benefit of learners who have 
hearing impairment, the full participation of deaf linguistics 
organizations and deaf cooperatives shall be required in the 
development of learning materials;
(6} Subject to con:.u] taticn wTth the DepEd, CHED, and the Technical 
Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), all face-to- 
face classes and group school activities, including sports, athletics, 
cultural, and academic meets, exhibitions, competitions as well as 
extra-curricular field or exposrue trips and student exchanges shall
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remain suspended unless otherwise officially declared permissible 
by competent authorities without prejudice to the academic freedom 
and levels of autonomy enjoyed by HEls in the management and 
conduct of their academic affairs;
(7) Digital learning shall be promoted by the National Government in 
coordination with telecommunications companies, private sector 
content providers and stakeholders, and internet ser\dce providers;
(8) Pubhc and private education institutions including private colleges 
and universities and other accredited learning and training 
institutions shaU prioritize the establishment of online platforms for 
the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and Mandatory 
Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) programs; and
(9) Subject to existing rules and regulations, meaningful inclusion and 
effective participation of students and the learning community must
be ensured in aU aspects of pandemic response and recovery plan in 
education: Provided, That mechanisms to uphold autonomy of 
student councils or governments, and support for uninterrupted 
operations of campus press shall be in place.
(E) Management of Cultural and Heritage Spaces -
Digital platforms shall be used to consolidate resources and cultural 
forms in public spaces, whether generated by the private or the public 
sector, to create an archive of oral histories, visual ethnographies, 
philosophical discourse, and technical and creative capacity-building 
programs geared tovurds bolstering various creative industries, that shall 
be made available to the pubhc for virtual appreciation and learning, most 
especially in the K-12 system. Online promotion or streaming of cultural 
programs, performances, exhibitions and enhancement of existing pubhc 
arts and monuments shah be highly encouraged and geared towards 
sustainabihty.
(F) Better Normal for Private Commercial and Industrial Workplaces -
(1) The National Government, in coordination with the LGUs, and in 
partnership with accredited or dtily recognized organizations that
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pertain to each sector, shall maintain databases on all private 
commercial, industrial, and other businesses operating in their areas 
of jurisdiction. The database shall indude information such as the 
number of employees, working hours, workspace conditions, office 
floor areas, and other information necessary to ensure compliance 
with physical distancing and other protocols prescribed by this Act 
to prevent the transmission of COVID19 vkiis:
(2) All private commercial, industiial, and other forms of businesses 
shall be required to submit a Management Plan to the concerned 
LGU which shall determine the said business's compliance with the 
necessary safeguards and the Universal Safety Measures provided 
under this Act, as well as industrial safeguards and safety measures 
provided for by the implementing agencies: Provided, That the 
review of all Management Plans shall be conducted promptly upon 
submission to allow establishments to resume operations as soon as 
possible: Provided further, That the Man agement Plan s hall integrate 
circular economy strategies in the procurement of materials or the 
development of mechanisms for hygiene and sanitation: Provided, 
furthermore. That LGUs are authorized to conduct periodic 
inspection of private commercial, industrial and other businesses 
operating VvUthin their territorial jurisdiction to ensure compliance of 
these businesses with the Universal and Mandatory Safety Measures 
and other standards and protocols prescribed under this Act and its 
IRR;
(3) All private commercial, industrial and other businesses shall 
implement their Management Plan and shall incorporate alternative 
work arrangements such as work-from-home schemes, including
X KJ CC4. XXV./X LC4.X1 work or shifting in schedules, in applicable industries to 
lessen by at least fifty percent (50%) the number of employees 
required to report to their workplaces physiccdly. For the private 
sector, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in 
consultation with the private sector, shall standardize the template
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for and the required contents of the said Management Plan. The 
LGUs shall be in charge of monitoring the implementation of this 
provision;
(4) All private commercial, industrial and other businesses shall 
shoulder all expenditures in complying with the mandates of this 
Act, and such expenditures shall not in any way be charged to 
employees. There shall be no diminution of salaries, wages, benefits 
and other remunerations guaranteed by the Labor Code and other 
relevant laws to employees by reason of employer's compliance with 
this Act;
(5) The relevant provisions of the Labor Code notwithstanding, being 
late or being absent for work due to heavy traffic, unavailability of 
pubhc transport or of shuttle or transportation service due to reasons 
related to the implementation of this Act shall not be a cause for 
disciplinary action against, or termination of, the employees. Private 
commercial and industrial businesses are hereby mandated to adopt
r 
a flexible working schedule in keeping with the poHcy of
maintaining a minimum of eight (8) hour work per day, or forty- 
eight (48) hour work per week, which shall be incorporated in their 
Management Plans; and
(6) Ihe DOLE shall ensure the conduct of health and safety7 audits of aU 
workplaces, including special economic zones, in line with Republic 
Act No. 11058, otherwise known as "An Act Strengthening Compliance 
with Occupational Safety and Health Standards and providing penalties for 
violations thereof.
(G) Better Normal Governance Measures -
(1) Various forms of electronic governance or e-governance 
mechanisms shall be established to facilitate continuous and efficient 
transactions between and among government agencies, and the 
private sector, as well as in the dehvery of socio-economic services 
including the utilization of online payment system, appointment- 
based transactions, the Philippine national public key infrastructure.
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electronic business permits and licensing systems, electronic 
procurement system, electronic management systems for human 
resources, records, accoxmtmg, as well as other ICT- enabled systems 
and solutions for effective and efficient e-govemance.
Internet-based electronic payment facilities and gateways, 
such as e-money and similar platforms, shall be utiHzed in collecting 
taxes, fees, toUs, imposts, and other revenues and in paying for 
goods, services, and other disbursemer is. Government offices and 
government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) that are 
already partially applying this kind of digitized payment 
mechanism must improve the current system used in order to 
accommodate the increase in the number of transactions. The 
government shall estabHsh online payment systems and may 
partner wdth payment solutions providers;
(2) Government agencies involved in business registration, such as the 
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Securities and Exchange 
Commission (SEC), Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), 
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Social Security System (SSS), 
Home Development Mutual Fimd (Pag-IBIG), Philippine Health 
Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), LGUs, and other permit and 
license issuing agencies shall be integrated to facilitate the efficient 
dehvery of business registration-related services;
(3) The Bangko Sentral ng PiHpinas (BSP) shall accelerate the adoption 
by all payment service providers of the National Quick Response 
(QR) Code standard to hasten the interoperability of QR-driven 
payment services and ehminate the need for merchants and clients 
to maintain several accoxmts;
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procurement processes involving bidding, contract agreements, and 
payment for services or suppHes, and which shall contain a tracking 
and customer service mechanism shall also be developed; and
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(5) Where applicable, the relevant provisions of Repubhc Act No. 11032, 
otherwise known as the "Ease of Doing Business and Efficient 
Government Service Delivery Act of 2018”, shall supplement the 
provisions of this Act.
(H)Other Aspects of Better Normal -
(1) The government shall provide important information related to 
health emergencies to persons Vvlth disabilities (PWDs) and 
institutionahze assistive mechanisms for them s uch as requiring sign 
interpretation in TV news broadcasts and Live streamed public 
information programs and content In relation thereto, a system of 
standards for assistive mechanisms for PWDs shall be planned, 
financed, implemented, and monitored. For purposes of this Act, 
individuals who assist PWDs such as sign language interpreters 
shah be recognized as front liners providing essential sendees;
(2) The government must likewise provide sufficient support for culture 
bearers and masters, and those engaged in crafts making, such as 
weaving and carving;
(3) Emergency cash subsidies shall be given to artists, cultural workers, 
freelancers and the self-employed, such as those working in the 
audiovisual, entertainment, and live events sector, and other creative 
industries, such as architecture and allied arts, dance, dramatic arts, 
hterary arts, music, visual arts, contemporary arts or expressions, 
audiovisual and multimedia, and scholars, critics, curators, and 
cultural workers;
(4) The local chief executives of LGUs, in coordination with the private 
sector, shall implement, monitor and maintam a planned schedule 
for people traveling to and from their respective workplaces or 
residences located in the LGU and if possible or applicable, the 
charter of various means of transportation foi* the use of residents 
and workers to and from their respective destinations;
(5) There shall be a continuous implementation of alternative work 
arrangements in the public and private sectors based on the nature
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of work of an employee, the workplace and its location or place, and 
its distance to and from the residences of employees;
(6) The implementation of Republic Act No. 9003, also known as the 
f/Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000", in relation to the 
proper disposal and management of wastes resulting from activities 
related to the implementation of this Act shall be strictly monitored: 
Provided, That the National Government shah implement regulations 
on the manufacture and importation, use, recycling of all single-use 
plastics used in trade or commerce in business enterprises, as well as 
by retailers and consumers: Provided, further. That the government 
shah conduct research and develop single-use plastic packaging 
alternatives, and provide incentives to plastic industries that wih 
shift to other manufacturing activities;
(7) Adaptation measures such as the establishment of multi-hazard 
early warning systems that reach out the last mile, capacity building 
of national experts, construction of rainwater harvesters in 
government-owTied and -managed buildings and spaces, and the 
establishment of seedbanks and vegetable gardens in available open 
spaces in local communities, rooftops of government-owned and - 
managed buildings shaU be implemented;
(8) To prevent the transmission and spread of zoonotic dhicnses among 
humans, ah government agencies and offices and LGUs shaU ensure 
that the protection of biological diversity is integrated and 
mainstreamed into programs and projects;
(9) The National Government, through relevant government agencies, 
such as the DICT, DTI, DILG, in accordance with their respective 
mandates, and with the support of the private sector, shall plan for 
and undertake universal digitalization as well as promote and 
implement programs and innovations to accelerate public access and 
connectivity including the progressive roll-out of the National 
Broadband Program and the Free Public Internet Access Program 
down to the barangay level;
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(10) The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Disaster Risk 
Reduction and Management Coxmcil (NDRRMC), DILG through the 
Persons with Disabilities Affairs Offices (PDAOs), and DOH shall 
gather, compile, update, and publish online, disaggregated 
demographic and mapping data on deaf and all other persons wdth 
disabilities nationwide in the context of the pandemic;
(11) The PSA, DTI, NDRRMC, DOLE, DOH, National Economic 
Development Authority (NEDA) and other relevant agencies shall 
gather, compile and update disaggregated demographic and 
mapping data on critically impacted businesses, sectors, and 
industries in the context of the pandemic in order to get a better 
census of the needs of the various sectors and industries; and
(12) In compliance "Auth Section 10 of Republic Act No. 11106, otherwise
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placement of TV insets in news and public affairs programs through 
video remote interpreting on TV as well as online streaming 
platforms, and promote as well deaf-prodiiced and/or -signed 
pandemic and quarantine related pubhc information.
Sec. 7. Role ofLGUs. - LGUs shall, in their respective territorial jurisdictions, be 
primarily responsible for instituting localized policies and legislation in accordance
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directives and issuances of the National Government. Local governments must ensure 
that their poticy-making process shall involve the participation of all stakeholders. 
Consultations with the communities shall be pursued as a matter of course to ensure 
that such policies respond properly to the needs of the people. In this regard, the LGUs 
shall have the following responsibihties:
(a) Ensrue the proper implementation of the provisions of this Act within
tir respective territorial jurisdiction;
(b) Enact the necessary and appropriate ordinance for the local 
implementation of the provisions of this Act, including the promolion 
of low-contact payment mechanisms such as the use of electronic money 
(e-money) as a medium of exchange in collecting taxes, fees, toUs,
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imposts, and other revenues and in paying for goods, services, and other 
disbursements: Provided, That the LGU shall make the necessary 
arrangements with the relevant government agencies and government- 
recognized regulating entities to acquire e-money payment capabiHty; 
(c) Require, by ordinance, merchants or business entities in then localities 
to obtain and maintain e-money payment system capabiHty that is
accessible by phLV-/X L\^ \J>±. Other access devices, as a prerequisite for the 
approval of appHcation for or renewal of business permits;
(d) Create a Better Normal Task Force to monitor tire compliance of the 
private businesses and offices with the provisions of this Act;
(e) Orient the appHcant thereof of the guidelines on the management of 
spaces as provided m Section 6(B) of this Act, which shall be observed 
throughout the entire gathering;
(f) In cooperation or with the assistance of the Land Transportation Office 
(LTO), initiate information campaigns on pubHc transportation schemes 
in their localities in accordance with Section 6(C) of this Act;
(g) Establish the Inter-Local Government Unit Task Force as authorized by 
and in accordance with the appropriate guidelines of the DILG;
(h) In coordination with the DICT, foster, support and faciHtate the effective 
roll-out of free wi-fi access points and other infrastructure needed for 
the National Broadband Program. The LGUs shall likewise foster, 
support, and faciHtate the construction of common towers and other 
passive telecommunication infrastructure in strategic locations for the • 
use of telecommunications service providers to propagate connectivity 
and provide quality telecommunications services to their constituents in 
accordance with existing laws, and the poHcies and standards set by the 
DICT;
(i) In coordination with. DOFI, provide immediate assistance to all reported 
COVID-confirmed residents and patients;
(j) In coordination with the DOH, estabHsh and maintain a functional local 
epidemiology and surveiUance unit pursuant to Republic Act No. 11332, 
also known as the "'Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health
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Events of Public Health Concern Act". In acccrdance with Section 6(A) of 
this Act, the LGU shall specify the conduct of contact tracing systems for 
suspect, probable, and confirmed COVID-19 cases, or other similar 
diseases, to avoid delay in contact tracing and to ensure the prompt 
management and containment of the disease. In ail cases, the LGU shaU 
ensure that disease surveillance and contact tracing procedmes are in
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(k) In coordination with the Department of Agriculture (DA), plan and 
implement a resihent agro-ecology and local food supply system that: 
(1) involves a shorter, more diversified food supply chain that is resihent 
to future shocks; (2) ensures food access shah remain at, or swiftly 
returns to, pre- pandemic levels; (3) mitigates the impact on vulnerable 
food systems actors, including small-holder producers, informal traders,
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towards good agricultural and chmate-reshient practices; and, (5) builds 
capacity towards family-farming model to encourage food security. The 
plan shall promote permaculture and the establishment of community 
food gardens, family farms, local food production and shorter supply 
chains, the strengthening of urban-rural hnkages, and the promotion of 
diversity in the food supply chain and channels of distribution as well 
as ensuring the integrity of sufficient whld spaces nearby to preservre 
genetic stocks, revitalize monoculture areas and ensure water security;
(l) Estabhsh and manage the use of cultural spaces to serve as venues and 
facilities for keeping the creativity of the people alive, affording people 
to exercise their freedom of expression, enhancing psycho-spiritual 
health, and providing them opportunities for me aningful participation 
in community life, even while observing the universal mandatory 
standards and protocols during the time of a pandemic: Provided, Tlrat 
such cultural space must meet the minimum criteria of facihties or 
landscapes that are open to the pubhc: Provided fiirther, That cultural 
spaces are adaptable, do not compromise on quaHty, able to enhance a 
sense of community, and are inclusive, accessible and welcoming; and
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(m)The LGUs, in coordination with the cultiral agencies, such as the 
NCCA, National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and 
the National Museum, DepEd, CHED and SUCs, Department of 
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Tourism, 
DPWH, and the DOH, shall conduct a comprehensive cultural heritage 
mapping of their areas, including natural resources, built heritage 
structures, and tangible and intangible heritage, including indigenous 
knowledge and resources, with the end in view that the resulting 
database and documentation shall aid LGUs in formulating localized 
policies and programs that will help prevent the transmission of 
zoonotic diseases among the people and help protect their health and 
well-being.
An application shall be developed as repository of the data 
retrieved horn cultural mapping activities.
Sec. 8. Role of the Private Sector. -
(a) All private businesses, offices and establishments shall submit a 
Management Plan, to the concerned LGU where the entity conducts 
operations or holds office not later than fifteen (15) days upon 
resumption of their operations: Provided, That priority approval shall be 
granted by LGUs to Management Plans that strictly comply with 
industry7 best practices, minimum health standards, and safct}7 protocols 
as accredited by DOH, DTI, DOLE and other implementing agencies. 
Such Management Plan shall contain, among others, the following 
information:
(1) Total number of employees in the specific workplace, office, or 
branch covered by the plan;
(2) Overall strategy for the reporting of the workforce which may be 
on rotational, staggered, tele-commuting, remote or on work-from- 
home basis, including the relevant time specifications and periods 
as well as the number of workers who shall be allowed ingress and 
egress;
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(3) Total number of workers at any given time in the workplace or 
office on a daily basis;
(4) Number of workers per area of space and the spacing mechanisms 
to be implemented in compliance with physical distancing 
protocols, if applicable;
(5) Mechanisms for maintaining personal hygiene and cleanliness 
among the employees and in workstations or areas including the 
availability of handwashing or hand sanitizing implements;
(6) Physical changes in space management introduced or to be 
introduced in the workplaces to protect employees and to 
implement physical distancing such as plastic barriers between 
customers and personnel or between and among customers or 
other individuals within the workplace;
(7) Signages, reminders, and other informaticn, in accessible formtats, 
including Fihpino sign language and/ or easy-to-xmderstand text 
in the appropriate written language, installed or posted in key 
areas of the workplace to serve as constant reminders for workers 
to practice the mandatory health, safety and sanitation practices;
(8) Mechanisms for maintaining physical distancing in communally 
shared areas in the workplace, such as cafeterias, restrooms, 
conference rooms, prayer rooms, breastfeeding stations, including 
safeguards against sharing of tools, implements, utensils, 
equipment, and supplies;
(9) Physical and personal protective equipment provided or to be 
provided by businesses to their respective employees in order to 
inclusively implement the practices mandated in this Act;
(10) Mechanisms for managing employe*es exliibiting symptoms or 
confirmed to have tested positive for COV1D19 infection, 
including the company or business unit's system for contact 
tracing;
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(11) The Workers7 Compensation Plan which provides how workers 
are required to work and wiU be compensated while on 
quarantine;
(12) Mechanisms to implement a circular economy in the workplace, 
such as the: (i) reduction on the consumption of non-renewable 
resources; (ii) development or design of products that minimize
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products; (iv) prevention of harmful emissions to soil, air and 
water; and (v) the installation of segregation and recycling 
facilities;
(13) Mechanisms for a healthier working environment, such as, but 
not limited to, the use of natural, non-toxic and low global 
warming potential materials and equipment, improved indoor air 
quality and ventilation Vvith sustainable cooling technologies, 
and the more efficient use of space; and
(14) Measures to implement a "zero to landfill" poUcy such as setting 
targets for reducing waste production; implementing sorting and 
recycling for aU office waste; ensuring that recycled waste is 
composted or recycled; or observing sharing economy practices 
such as reusing and recycling.
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employees to subject themselves to a thermal or temperature scan prior 
to being allowed entry. Employees whose recorded body temperature 
render them suspect for symptoms of COVID-19 shall be asked to 
undergo the necessary quarantine protocols and given the appropriate 
medical advice, or subjected to the appropriate health care m 
coordination with authorized medical facilities;
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presence of their employee subject to their Management Plan shall 
provide shuttle or transportation services under the conditions 
appHcable to public transportation operators: Provided, That private 
entities and owners of buildings and establishments shall support
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employees and building occupants who have opted to commute 
tluough bicycles and other micromobility devices by installing bicycle 
racks, storage, and bicycle parking spaces: Provided, further, That the 
installation of changing and shower rooms to support green transport 
and promote safe and proper hygiene shall likewise be promoted by 
business establishments;
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(d) There shall be an employee 
on the treatment of patients or of persons suspected to be afflicted with 
the disease in accordance with prevailmg DOH guidehnes: Provided, 
That patient-doctor confidentiality shall be suspended in order to aid 
contact tracing and in the identification of possible COVID-19 patients;
(e) Employers who opt to conduct testing may do so in a representative 
sample: Provided, That the cost of testing is borne by the employer and 
not charged to the PhilHealth; and
(f) hi the provision of assistance and financing schemes, the lack of capacity 
of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the 
implementation of their respective Management Plan shall be taken into 
consideration.
The implementation of mandator}^ public health standards and 
other health-promoting practices committed by business owners in then 
respective Management Plans shall be the joint responsibility7 of the 
owners or management of estabHshments and their respective LGUs.
Sec. 9. Specific Responsibilities of Particular National Government Offices, their 
respective Attached Agencies, and GOCCs. - hi addition to the duties and mandates of 
National Government agencies already prescribed in the other sections of this Act, the 
following agencies and offices are mandated to carry out the following 
responsibihties, to wit
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The PSA shall fast-track the implementation of the provisions of 
Republic Act No. 11055, otherwise known as the "Philippine Identification 
System Act", and Repubtic Act No. 11315, otherwise known as the 
"Community-Based Monitoring System Act", to facilitate the profiling.
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contact-tracing, and distribution of forms of assistance under the better 
normal period after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.
The PSA shall coordinate with the DILG, Department of Social 
Welfare and Development (DSWD) and LGUs to cull information from the 
Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) that may be utilized in fast- 
tracking efforts geared towards the fuU implementation of the Philippine 
Identification System Act.
The PSA may Hkewise cuU information contained in the existing 
databases of the goverrunent on birth certificates, passports, voter's 
registration, GSIS, SSS, Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth through data-sharing 
arrangements, subject to the rules and procedtures that shall be established 
by the National Privacy Commission (NPC) for purposes of facilitatmg the 
implementation of the Philippine Identification System Act.
To facilitate the integration of environmental concerns in national 
development planning and policy-making, tlie PSA, in cooi’dination with 
the DENR, DA, NED A, Department of Energy (DOE), and the Climate 
Change Commission, shall enhance the PhiHppine Economic- 
Environmental Natural Resources Accounting (PEENRA) System as part 
of the national income accounting system. The DENR and the DA shall 
generate baseline information and build a database to support ecosystem- 
based assessment and mLonitoring, continuing research and development, 
technology development and transfer, and capacity building, for the 
conservation and sustainable use of natural resouices and ecosystems, 
especially the coastal, marine, and forestry sectors.
The PEENRA shall be considered a scientific planning tool to avert 
ecosystems and biodiversity loss with a view to preventing the 
transmission of zoonotic diseases and pursuing anticipatory adaptation 
m.easures amid the impacts of climLate change. It shall include the provision 
for strategic cHmate financing for localized climate adaptation investments 
supporting risk-based local plaiming, energy transition to renewable and 
indigenous sources, resilient infrastructure, agro-ecology, water and food
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security, technological innovation for critical sectors like agriculture and 
fisheries, and capacity building for green enterprises.
The PEENRA system shall be based on a framework that includes the 
accounting of environmental conditions and quality, environmental 
resources and their utilization, depreciation of natural capital, 
environmental damages, and loss and damage associated with climate 
change impacts.
(B) Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) -
The DICT shall fast track the progressive and full implementation of 
the National Broadband Program (NBP) by immediately establishing and 
implementing a nationwide and comprehensive information and 
communications teclmology (ICT) action plan that shall involve all 
stakeholders, including the major TELCOs, small TELCOs, internet service 
providers (ISPs), and developers of technology and digital applications, 
with the end in view of -widening and improving connectivity not onl}r for 
the fight against COVID-19 but also for the long-term development needs 
of the country. The NBP shall serve to enable the widespread accessibility 
to and utilization of the internet for essential and significant public and 
private transactions, including learning and instruction: Provided, That the 
NBP must be reliable and sufficiently able to support a high volume of
video streaming, in compli
^^dth the Filipino Sign Language Act.
XXtAJ. 
vvxxXl
Further, the DICT shall immediately formulate and implement an 
industry-wide policy for the TELCOS, both major and small, ISPs, and 
technology applications that aims to widen comiectivity in aU sectors of 
society, particularly the poor, the unconnected, the rmderserved 
households in poor urban communities, geographically isolated and 
disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), and the MSMEs: Provided, That in relation to
ti\rity to all sectors of society, the principle belund
V V AviCiiixl^ KJl.
the NBP shall be adhered to. To achieve the goal of providing connectivity 
to all sectors of the economy, incentive shall be provided to new market 
that shall invest in unserved areas: Provided, further. That such incentives
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shall result in affordable prices for internet usage: Provided finally. That 
the following key policies shall be implemented:
(1) Provision of incentives to TELCOs which serve tire poor and 
xmderserved MSMEs nationwide via wireless network technology 
(WiFi) by implementing a reduced Spectrum User Fee for WiFi, 
such that a fair and reasonable scheme is achieved consistent with 
existing rules and regulations governing the use of WiFi;
(2) Implement its departmental policies and initiatives for the 
propagation of Common Tower and the sharing of Passive 
Telecommunication Infrastructure in the telecommunications 
industry;
(3) Implementation of the provision for fiber optic transmission rental 
from the National Grid Corporation to new telecommunications 
industry" players to accelerate development therein;
(4) Implementation of the spectnun sharing arrangement among and 
between TELCOs, at intra-industry fee agreements regulated by 
NTC, to fuUy and optimally utilize the usage of Hcensed 
frequencies that are presently assigned to existing major TELCOs;
(5) FuU use of the internet bandwidth supply made available by the 
Luzon Bypass inlxastmcture to fxovide connectivity to all 
government offices and to the unser\red and underserved areas of 
the country. For this purpose, the DICT shall formulate a poHcy to 
implement effective measures to make the internet bandwidth 
supply available at a fair pricing scheme, to other TELCO 
stakeholders, giving priority to new incoming players, particularly 
those that serve the poor and underserved communities and 
GIDAs;
X 
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including the middle and last mile providers, the GOCCs or LGUs 
for the provision of internet bandwidth sourced separately from, 
or in conjmiction with, the Luzon Bypass infrastructure, should it
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become necessary, to provide connectivity to end-users through 
multi-year obligations;
(7) Promulgate joint pohcies with the DIT.G that mandate a simplified 
and streamlined permitting process for telecommunication amd 
broadband infrastructure; and
(8) Promulgate and implement poHcies for effective cross-sector 
infrastructure sharing, such as, but not limited to, coordinated or 
joint infrastructure development, dark fiber leasing, and joint 
venture.
In pursuit of the above poHcy directives, the DICT shall undertake the 
following:
(i) Implement programs that shall facihtate the setting-up of online, 
internet-based systems and platforms in offices of the pubhc sector, 
including schools, universities and even barangay halls, across all 
levels;
(ii) Assist public sector offices and agencies m tlie upgrading of theii* 
existing internet and other ICT infrastructure;
(hi) Estabhsh, in coordination with other government agencies, 
learning modules and relevant ICT solutions and systems to assist 
pubhc sector employees, freelancers and seLf-employed 
individuals, and MShlEs in the use of relevant technological and 
digital platforms that can assist in the various cycles of their 
business model; and
(iv) Direct the NTC to implement ah relevant policy directives under 
this Act, including, but not hmited to, those pertaining to the 
enhancement of connectivity, improvement of internet speed and 
quahty of service, and development of the digital infrastructure of
tijL LLX y •
The DICT in coordination with the DOH shall also promote research 
towards the development and establishment of an online data tracking 
system or the creation of a digital/phone-based appHcation which is 
downloadable by the pubhc for case monitoring, mapping, and contact-
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tracing that shall be integrated with global positioning system (GPS) 
activated by real-time technologies to monitor and track individuals, alert 
the user of location-based risks and provide the user with updated and 
constant reminders and information for their health and safety. Any 
technology created for case monitoring, mapping and contact tracing shall 
be consistent wdth the Data Privacy Act. The DICT shall leverage the 
existing systems used for case monitoring, mappmg and contact tracing. 
AU systems, initiated by the public oi private sector, shall be 
interconnected to each other and shall be subject to the policies and 
standards issued by the DICT.
The DICT shall take the lead in the establishment of e-government 
systems and shall fast track its plans to build the necessary infrastructure 
to promote and facilitate digitization of the government and 
interoperability" of government sendees and systems, especially those 
located in the provinces and rural areas. Under this Act, government offices 
and agencies shall develop, introduce, an<;l implement solutions and 
systems to effectively facilitate government transactions through various 
onhne channels or contact-less mechanisms. This includes the uploading of 
pertinent government forms and their completion and/or submission thru 
websites or online portals in order to minimize the need for face-to-face 
transactions or physical travels or visits to government offices. 
Government agencies shall utihze creative adaptive technology that allows 
full access of PWDs to government services and are compliant with 
relevant existing laws and practices. This includes the establislunent of a 
system of standards for Fihpino sign language interpreting.
(C) Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) --
The DTI in coordination with the DICT shall establish a digital 
application for MSKlEs to farther enhance the conduct of e-commterce 
activities. The following measures shall be ur dertaken to assist MSMEs:
(1) Regulatory bodies and other concerned government agencies and 
instrumentalities shall allow the immediate use of online platforms 
for application, processing, approval and release of loans;
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(2) The use of video or teleconferencing, emails, and other online 
platforms shall be allowed and shall be considered as compliance 
with government rules and regulations, and tire requirements of 
meetings such as service of meeting notices, quorum and 
attendance requirements, and the registration of votes, on matters 
before the body conducting the meeting;
(3) The DTI shall provide special support programs that VvtiH assist 
MSMEs and startups in achieving business recovery and resiliency, 
including the following:
(i) Capacity-building in digital skills;
(ii) Support for digitalizing operations;
(iii) Knowledge transfer and information-sharing with MSMEs; 
and
(iv) Startup and MSMEs innovation aid.
The DTI, in coordination with the DICE and the DOH, shall also 
promote the shitting, prioritization, or increase in go\rernmeut support or 
funding for the manufacturing sector, including MSMEs engaged in the 
production of healthcare, hygiene, and safety related goods, and the 
establishment of real-time online information exchange between private 
hospitals and medical facilities in the supply, demand, and procurement of 
the same: Provided, That concerned govermnent agencies shall prom.ote and
integrate circular economy strategies in the procurement of materials or the 
development of mechanisms for hygiene and sanitation in the 
implementation of this Act.
The provision of government support could come in the form of: (1) 
integrated and uninterrupted supply chain networks; (2) reliable online 
market platforms; (3) stable universal broadband; (4) digital IDs or digital
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others.
The DTI, NED A, Presidential Commmucations Operations Office 
(PCOO), cultural government agencies such as the NCCA and the FDCP, 
in partnership with the private sector, shall formulate and implement a
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strategic marketing communications plan that will renew public interest in 
and restore confidence in industries classified as non-essential but heavily 
affected due to the implementation of quarantine and other health 
measures to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
(D) Department of Health (DOH) -
The DOH shall institutionalize and regulate telemedicine and e- 
prescription activities, in accordance v»ith relevant rules and regulations. It 
shall likewise explore technological innovations for ceitain health services 
that might be compromised in the new normal setting. It shall promote and 
support local research on COVID-19 testing and treatment, and the 
development, manufacture and distribution of a vaccine.
To improve on pubHc sanitation, the DOH sjiall execute all plans 
geared at achieving zero open defecation and require all LGUs to report on 
their achievements of this goal.
(E) Local Water Districts and Water Utilities -
Considering that water is a basic need in containing the transmission 
of COVID-19 and similar diseases, the local water districts shall ensure the 
availability of sufficient water supply in their areas of coverage. In the case 
of private water utilities, such service providers shall review and 
recommend the appropriate extension of concession agreements necessary 
to ensure sufficient water supply in their ser ice areas as rvell as to fast- 
track sewerage systems as required under RepubHc Act No. 9275, 
otherwise known as the "Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004", Such service 
providers shall also be required to submit new master plans to reflect a 
speedier full sewerage, septage and wastewater treatment coverage of the 
metropolis.
(F) Department of PubHc Works and Highways -
The DPWH shall take full responsibility for the implementation of the 
National Sewerage cind Septage Management Plan and shall provide 
sufficient funds for it. All highly urbanized cities shall, in coordination with 
DENR, identify remaining hotspots of fecal transmission and construct the
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necessary wastewater infrastructure using funds made available by the 
DPWH.
(G) Department of Budget and Management (DBM) -
The DBM shall undertake the formulation of the annual national 
budget in a way that ensures the appropriate prioritization and allocation 
of funds to support programs and projects to implement this Act for green,
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(H) Department of Finance (DOF) -
The DOF shall streamline and rationahze the process for accessing 
international green and climate finance for programs and interventions 
identified imder this Act to accelerate the implementation of technical 
cooperation projects and grants supportive of the resilient and sustainable 
recovery objectives of this Act.
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special care and consideration shall be given to integrating gender issues and 
eliminating aU forms of discrimination in the following:
(a) Implementation of alternative work arrangements in the public and 
private sectors ensuring that DSWD and LGUs attend to possible 
heightened cases of gender-based and domestic violence during 
intermittent mandatory lockdowns or quarantines;
(b;
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female and male workers and daily wage earners that ensure restoration 
of livelihoods and such other ameHorative measures that shall 
compensate for temporary loss of incomes;
(c) Sufficient and equal support for both women and men with disabilities, 
cognizant that women with disabilities are most disadvantaged and 
excluded from access to vital pandemic-related information and 
assistive acts;
(d) Sufficient and equal provision of protective personal equipment to male 
and female frontline health workers and employees in both health 
centers and public and private firms and workplaces; and
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(e) Public reproductive health care services and the capacity of maternal 
health cUnics and midwives to address needs of cluld-bearers in terms 
of isolation from infected patients, lactation and re-lactation assistance, 
and sufficient staffing and facilities for tife-saving procedures.
The needs of women in the health care and medical frontiine 
professions shall be considered in the procurement of personal 
protective equipment and such other assistive measures such as access 
to clean restrooms, reasonable work shifts and equity in wages.
Any sector that may be affected adversely by measures under this 
Act that would lead to unemployment or industry collapse shall be 
assisted by the LGUs and interlocal units in alleviating their economic 
status.
Sec. 11. Prohibited Acts. - The following acts and om issions are prohibited under 
this Act:
(a) Failure to wear a mask while in pubtic spaces or in the workplace;
(b) Failure to comply with the provisions on the management of spaces 
required in Section 6(B) of this Act, except in subsections (1) and (3). hi 
such cases, the subject gathering shall either be ordered ceased, with the 
maximum tolerance possible imder existing laws, if such gathering does 
not comply with Section 6(A) of this Act;
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Management of Public Transportation provided for under Section 6(C) 
of this Act;
(d) Failure to comply with Section 6(D)(2) of this Act and other issuances, 
circulars, memorandum and directives of DepEd and CHED in relation 
to the holding of classes during COVID-19 pandemic: Provided, That no 
penalty or discrimination in whatever form shall be imposed on any
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attend or hold ontine classes or comply with the flexible learning 
approaches;
(e) Failure to submit the Management Plan within the period required in 
Section 8(a) of this Act; and
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(f) Failure of the employer, supervisor, manager or any person in charge to
2 
abide by the Case Management Protocols as provided for in Section 8 of
3 
this Act.
4 
Sec. 12. Penalties. - Any person, natural or juridical, who violates the provisions
5 
under Section 11 of this Act shall, upon conviction, suffer the following penalties:
6 
(a) For violation of Section 11(a) of this Act, a stern warning shall be issued
7 
for the first offense, and for succeeding offenses, a mandatoiyr rendition
8 
of community service or performance of productive tasks, such as
9 
assisting in information campaign to comba t the COVID-19 pandemic;
10 
(b) Imprisonment of one (1) month and one day to two (2) months or a fine
11 
ranging from One Thousand Pesos (Php 1,000.00) to Fifty Thousand
12 
Pesos (Php 50,000.00), or both, at the discretion of the court for violation
13 
Section 11 (b) to (g) of this Act
14 
In case the violation is committed by a partnership, corporation,
15 
association or any jxrridical person, the partner, president, director or
16 
manager who consents to or knowingly tolerates such violation shall be
17 
directly liable and responsible;
18 
(c) Suspension of the entity's permit to operate for any violation of Section
19 
11(e): Provided, That the place owner, administrator or manager of the
20 
entity shall be given a period of fifteen (15) days to submit the required
21 
Management Plan: Provided, further. That failure to comply TAUthin the
22 
15-day period shall be meted a fine of T’vv enty Thousand Pesos (Php
23 
20,000.00); and
24 
(d) Imprisonment of not less than two (2) months but not more than six (6)
25 
months, or a fine of not less than Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) but
26 
not more than One Hundred Thousand Pe50S (Php 100,000.00), or both
27 
imprisonment and fine, at the discretion of the court, in case the offender
28 
is a government official or employee.
29 
Sec. 13. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to effectively carry out the
30 
provisions of this Act shall be charged against the current appropriations of the
31 
concerned government agencies. Thereafter, such sums as may be necessary for the
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continued implementation of this Act shall be included in the amiual General 
Appropriations Act.
Sec. 14. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within fifteen (15) days fi*om the 
effectivity of this Act, a technical working group (TWG) shall be constituted 
composed of the respective heads or the duly authorized representatives of the 
following agencies:
(o»\ 
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(b) Department of Finance;
(c) Department of Trade and Industry;
(d) National Economic Development Authority;
(e) Department of Labor and Employment;
(f) Department of Information and Communications Technology;
(g) Department of Budget and Management;
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(i) 
Department of Education;
(j) 
Department of Health;
(k) CMl Service Commission;
(1) Commission on Higher Education; and
(m) The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious 
Diseases.
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necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act.
Sec. 15. Joint Congressional Oversight Committee. - A Joint Congressional 
Oversight Committee composed of four (4) members of each House to be appointed 
by the Senate President and the House Speaker, respectively, shall exercise an 
oversight function over the implementation of this Act.
Sec. 16. Sunset Clause. - This Act shall expire after three (3) years from the date 
of its effectivity, or sooner upon official declaration of the President of the Philippines 
issued upon recommendation of the lATF for the Management of Emerging and 
Infectious Diseases that the prevailing pandemic caused by tlie COVID-19 virus, or 
other similar infectious diseases, has already been eradicated: Provided, lliat 
standards, protocols, and other measures prescribed by this Act which are not
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rendered useless or impractical by the eradication of COVID-19 may continue to be
2 
implemented.
3 
Sec. 17. Separability Clause. - If any part or provision of this Act shall be declared
4 
unconstitutional or invaHd, the other parts or provisions hereof, which are not
5 
affected thereby, shall continue to be in full force find efft'ct.
6 
Sec. 18. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and
7 
regulations, issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are
8 
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.
9 
Sec. 19. EJfectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
10 
complete pubhcation either in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of
11 
general circulation.
Approved,
39