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EPKES,
is Lax
‘S RECEIVE

Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session

7131

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by ANG PROBINSYANO
Party-List Representative Alfred Delos Santos

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The threat of COVID-19 has taken the entire nation into uncharted waters
in battling a disease that spreads a lot like wildfire. Most nations were caught by
surprise and even the most developed countries were hit severely by the death
tolls and confirmed cases. With everything that has happened and is continuing
to happen during this crisis, we are reminded of the old adage that “prevention
is better than cure.”

This is where we pick up from this crisis. We need to take every possible
learning curve and improve better on our healthcare system, equipment, and
supplies. An important aspect in suppressing the spread of the virus has been
the need for a community quarantine, and an isolated system for those which
are considered persons under investigation and persons under monitoring. Our
hospitals were caught by surprise with the number of patients coming to their
facilities every single day. In response, the local government units and the
national government, in partnership with the private sectors, have turned several
establishments into quarantine facilities.

From this policy standpoint comes the necessity of having a network of
permanent quarantine facilities across the archipelago. We cannot wait for
another crisis to adequately prepare the necessary buildings for pandemics.
Through this legislation, we envision that more than facing the problem head on,
we will be prepared beforehand. It is for these reasons that the passage of this,

bill is earnestly sought.

ALFRED C. DELOS SANTOS.
Representative, Ang Probinsyano Partylist

y



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS.
Second Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. 7131

Introduced by ANG PROBINSYANO
Party-List Representative Alfred Delos Santos

AN ACT
CREATING A NETWORK OF PERMANENT QUARANTINE FACILITIES IN
THE PHILIPPINES

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the
Philippines in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Quarantine
Facilities Act of 2020.”

SECTION 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.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act:

a) *Quarantine” refers to strict isolation imposed to prevent the spread
of a disease or illness.

b) “Pandemic” refers to the spread of a disease in a worldwide scale.

©) “Epidemic” refers to the spread of a disease to a large number of
population in a short period of time.

d) “Calamity” refers to a disastrous even marked by great loss and
lasting distress and/or suffering.

SECTION 4. Creation of a Network of Permanent Quarantine Facilities. -
The Department of Public Works and Highways, with the assistance of the
Department of Health, Department of Interior and Local Government, and the
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, shall identify,


prepare, and provide possible areas within which permanent quarantine facilities
may be built to be used during times of pandemics and epidemics. The network
of permanent quarantine facilities shall be strategically placed across the
Philippines in order to provide an adequate facility in each major island region.

Each quarantine facility should have adequate supplies and equipment
needed for short-term or long-term isolation. Satisfactory and dignified sleeping
quarters shall be provided.

SECTION 5. During times of calamity ~ The quarantine facilities shall be
used as evacuation centers in times of calamity when they are not in use during
such for epidemics or pandemics.

When there are no calamities, pandemics, or epidemics, the quarantine
facilities shall be used for purposes which the government agencies
aforementioned shall deem fit for the current need.

SECTION 6. Partnership with local government units - The quarantine
facilities shall be used as evacuation centers in times of calamity when they are
not in use during such for epidemics or pandemics.

SECTION 7. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The Department of
Public Works and Highways shall promulgate the implementing rules and
regulations of this Act within ninety (90) days from its effectivity.

SECTION 8. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part of this Act is
held invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions or parts unaffected
shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 9. Repealing Clause. — All laws, executive orders, presidential
decrees or issuances, letters of instruction, administrative orders, rules, and
regulations contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby
repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.

SECTION 8. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general
circulation.

Approved,