NEDA proposes three-phase approach to counter COVID-19

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has proposed a three-phase approach to mitigate the social and economic impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to the Philippines.

In a statement on Tuesday, NEDA said the government response to the global health crisis should be holistic and should balance both social and economic factors.

"This public health emergency brought about by COVID-19 shows us how crucial it is for us to have a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in addressing the challenge," said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia.

"The response measures should delicately balance the health and economic objectives, particularly as the impact varies by economic class. Otherwise, the situation could deteriorate to a social and political crisis," he elaborated.

Under its proposal, NEDA has suggested a three-phased approach, with the first phase primarily for health efforts.

Phase 1A will involve clinical and medical response, the early detection and diagnosis, effective quarantine systems, effective management and treatment protocol, and research and epidemiological studies.

Phase 1B is for public health responses such as travel ban, promotion of proper hygiene, ban on crowded gatherings, school closures, work suspension, flexible work arrangements, and work continuance in essential sectors.

Meanwhile, Phase 1C will be for the short-term augmentation of the Philippines' health systems capacity, such as establishing makeshift outpatient consultation facilities with specimen harvesting, and the increase of supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and remote quarantine facilities (RQF).

This will be followed by Phase 2 which will rebuild consumer and business confidence.

"To maintain appropriate protective distancing even beyond the ECQ, businesses may implement staggered working hours. Provision of emergency loans may also be resorted to address balance sheet problems of both the business sector and consumers," Pernia said.

Lastly, Phase 3 will involve the resumption of a "new normal" state of economic activity more prepare for another possible pandemic.

"During a crisis, it is best to plan ahead and avoid the worst-case scenario. We have crafted a comprehensive program of actions, learning from experienced and insights from various sectors and countries," said Pernia.

"This program requires close collaboration among government instrumentalities from national to local, the business sector from micro to large, NGOs, and citizens alike. It is also necessary for us to think ahead even while we address the most urgent and critical challenges," he added.

Economists at the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) have earlier warned of a possible economic recession this year, as the Luzon-wide quarantine against the spread of the COVID-19 threatens growth.

From 12:00 a.m. on March 17, the entire Luzon was placed on enhanced community quarantine until April 13, 2020, restricting travel within the region in efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. — RSJ, GMA News