more power for duterteHouse approves bill granting Duterte anti-red tape powers ( not sure what red-tape means )
MANILA – The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure granting President Rodrigo Duterte anti-red tape powers during national emergencies.
With 267 affirmative votes, six negative votes and no abstention, the chamber approved House Bill No. 7884 that would grant Duterte the authority to expedite processing and issuance of national and local permits, licenses and certifications.
The measure aims to accelerate the country’s socio-economic recovery and ensure an effective government response to the current health crisis brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.
The bill covers all agencies of the Executive branch, including departments, bureaus, offices, commissions, boards, councils, government instrumentalities, and government-owned and controlled corporations.
“One of the strategic measures is to reduce transaction costs in all government agencies and provide efficient delivery of its services while maintaining integrity and accountability in government service and the promotion of transparency in the transactions of the government with the public, encompassing a program for the adoption of simplified requirements and procedures,” it said.
The bill will let the President suspend or waive requirements in securing such permits, licenses, clearances, certifications, or authorizations.
Moreover, the country’s chief executive will now have the power to suspend or remove any government official or employee performing acts contrary to the measure consistent with Article VII Sections 1 and 17 of the Constitution, the Revised Administrative Code, other existing laws, and jurisprudence.