Summary of 2021 Government Issuances on COVID-19

    Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

    BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS (BSP)

    01 October 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2381: Public Health Warning Against the Illicit Online Selling of Medicines Used for Treatment of COVID-19

    FDA warns all healthcare professionals and the public on significant risks associated with the growing internet sales of medicines. FDA advises the consumers to purchase all their medicines only from legitimate FDA-licensed establishments and drug outlets. Advisory No. 2021-2381

    25 June 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 80-2021: Clarifying the Suspension of the Statute of Limitations on Assessment on Collection of Taxes Due to the Declaration of Quarantine in Various Areas in the Country

    BIR issues Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No.80-2021, to supplement its RMC No. 52-2021, which suspended the running of the statute of limitations on assessment and collection of taxes pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997, as amended, due to the declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal (NCR Plus), and other applicable jurisdictions. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 80-2021

    03 May 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-030: Extension of Temporary Measures Implemented in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Rediscounting Facilities

    BSP’s Monetary Board (MB) approves the extension of the temporary measures implemented in the BSP’s rediscounting facilities until 31 July 2021, subject to further extension as may be approved by the MB. Memorandum No. M-2021-030

    30 April 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-029: Enhancements to the BSP Operational Relief Measures

    BSP provides the approved enhancements to its operational relief measures, in light of the ongoing COVID-19 situation. Memorandum No. M-2021-029

    26 April 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-026: Amendments to the Credit-Related Regulatory Relief Measures for BSFIs Affected by Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

    BSP announces the approval of the amendments to BSP regulations on the credit-related regulatory relief measures for BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions (BSFIs) affected by COVID-19 as an interim measure pending the full operationalization of the Financial Institutions Strategic Transfer (FIST) Act in 2021. Memorandum No. M-2021-026

    05 April 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-022: Advisory on Banking and Other Related Functions Considered as Essential Services and Its Employees Among Authorized Persons Outside of Residences (APORs)

    BSP enjoins all BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSFIs) to adopt appropriate work arrangements consistent with the community quarantine imposed by the national government. Memorandum No. M-2021-022

    19 January 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-010: Guidelines on the Electronic Submission of List of Members of the Board of Directors, Trustees, and Officers (LDTO)

    BSP issues the guidelines on the electronic submission of list of members of the board of directors, trustees, and officers (LDTO), to minimize the need to submit hardcopy during this time of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Memorandum No. M-2021-010

    19 January 2021 – Memorandum No. M-2021-009: Guidelines on the Electronic Submission of the Consolidated List of Stockholders and their Stockholdings (CLSS)

    BSP issues the guidelines on the electronic submission of the consolidated list of stockholders and their stockholdings (CLSS), to minimize the need to submit hardcopy during this time of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Memorandum No. M-2021-009

    14 January 2021 – Circular Letter No. CL-2021-008: Reminder on Strict Compliance with the Prevailing Regulations on Credit Cards and Financial Consumer Protection, and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Section 4 (aa) of Republic Act No. 11649 or The Bayanihan to Heal as One Act and Section 4 (uu) of Republic Act No. 11494 or The Bayanihan to Recover as One Act

    BSP reminds all BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions operating as credit card issuers to strictly comply with the prevailing regulations on credit cards and financial consumer protection, and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Section 4 (aa) of Republic Act No. 11649 or The Bayanihan to Heal as One Act and Section 4 (uu) of Republic Act No. 11494 or The Bayanihan to Recover as One Act. Circular Letter No. CL-2021-008


    Board of Investments

    BOARD OF INVESTMENTS (BOI)


    Bureau of Customs

    BUREAU OF CUSTOMS (BOC) ISSUANCES

    24 February 2021 – Customs Memorandum Circular No. 49-2021: Requirement on the Importation of COVID-19 Vaccines

    BOC disseminates to all concerned the letter from FDA Director General Rolando Enrique D. Domingo informing of the needed requirements in the importation of COVID-19 vaccines. Customs Memorandum Circular No. 49-2021

    01 July 2020 – Memorandum No. 91-2020: Extension of Transition Period of Application of Exporters, Traders and Stakeholders to the EU-GSP Registered Exporter (REX) System Until 31 December 2020

    BOC informs all exporters, traders and stakeholders that submission of their application for the Registered Exporter (REX) System is not later than 31 December 2020, as a result of the granting of Philippine Government’s request for the extension of the transition period of application to the EU-GSP REX System by the Directorate – General of Taxation and Customs Union. Memorandum No. 91-2020


    Bureau of Immigration

    BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION (BI)

    11 October 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Pre-Booked Facility / Quarantine Accommodation Requirement for Arriving Passengers

    BI advises of the revised pre-booked facility/quarantine accommodation requirement for arriving passengers coming from either “Green” or “Yellow” list countries / territories / jurisdictions, relative to IATF Resolution No. 142 dated 07 October 2021. BI Advisory Re: Revised Pre-Booked Facility / Quarantine

    02 October 2021 – BI Guide on Travel Restrictions as of 01 October 2021

    BI updates its travel restrictions guide as of 01 October 2021. BI Guide on Travel Restrictions as of 01 October 2021

    16 September 2021 – Advisory Re: BI Operations During NCR’s General Community Quarantine (GCQ) Alert Level 4 from 16 to 30 September 2021

    BI notifies all BI officials, employees and clients that all BI offices in National Capital Region (NCR) shall operate from 8:00am to 5:00pm and shall continue to adopt a skeleton workforce up to a maximum of 50 percent operational capacity, for the duration of the General Community Quarantine (GCQ). Advisory Re: BI Operations During NCR’s General Community Quarantine (GCQ) Alert Level 4 from 16 to 30 September 2021

    14 September 2021 – Advisory Re: Guide on Travel Restrictions

    BI issues the latest guide on the travel restrictions imposed in the country as of 06 September 2021. Advisory Re: Guide on Travel Restrictions

    12 September 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Suspends ‘Order to Leave’ of Overstaying Foreigners During the COIVD-19 Pandemic

    BI announces the temporary suspension of the Order to Leave (OTL) of foreigners who have overstayed their temporary visitor’s visa in the country due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. Press Release Re: BI Suspends ‘Order to Leave’ of Overstaying Foreigners

    11 September 2021 – Advisory Re: Revised Travel Guidelines and Restrictions

    Relative to the Memorandum from the Secretary dated 10 September 2021 re: Imposition of Travel Restrictions on Countries under the Red List, IATF Resolution No. 114, 128-A, 136 and 136-B, BI advises of the summary of travel guidelines and restrictions. Advisory Re: Revised Travel Guidelines and Restrictions

    09 September 2021 – Advisory Re: Temporary Suspension of the Order to Leave Under Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM-2013-003 During COVID-19 Pandemic

    BI temporarily suspends the imposition of the order to leave (OTL) of foreigners who have overstayed their temporary visitor’s visa in the country due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Advisory Re: Temporary Suspension of the Order to Leave Under Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM-2013-003 During COVID-19 Pandemic

    06 September 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 36, Series of 2021

    BI lifts the restrictions imposed on travel-restricted countries effective 06 September 2021, in line with IATF-MEID Resolution No. 36, series of 2021. BI Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 36, Series of 2021

    08 August 2021 – Press Release Re: BI-NAIA on Heightened Alert, Uninterrupted Ops During ECQ

    BI assures the traveling public that its services will remain uninterrupted despite the implementation of the ECQ in Metro Manila and other areas. Press Release dated 08 August 2021

    03 August 2021 – Advisory Dated 03 August 2021

    BI emphasizes to all its officials, employees, and clients the need to continuously and strictly adhere to the minimum health standards set in place to prevent the upsurge of COVID-19 infection given the confirmed local transmission of the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant in the Philippines. Advisory dated 03 August 2021

    01 August 2021 – Advisory Re: BI Guide on Travel Restrictions

    BI issues its latest guide on the travel restrictions imposed in the Philippines as of 01 August 2021. Advisory Re: BI Guide on Travel Restrictions

    27 July 2021 – Advisory Re: revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128, S. 2021 and Memorandum from Executive Secretary Dated 23 July 2021

    BI updates its summary of travel-restricted countries up to 31 July 2021 to include Malaysia and Thailand, pursuant to IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128 s. 2021 and Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated 23 July 2021. Advisory Re: revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128, S. 2021 and Memorandum from Executive Secretary Dated 23 July 2021

    27 July 2021 – Advisory Re: revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128, S. 2021 and Memorandum from Executive Secretary Dated 23 July 2021

    BI updates its summary of travel-restricted countries up to 31 July 2021 to include Malaysia and Thailand, pursuant to IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128 s. 2021 and Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated 23 July 2021. Advisory Re: revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 128, S. 2021 and Memorandum from Executive Secretary Dated 23 July 2021

    26 July 2021 – Press Release Re: Alien Spouses, Children, Parents of Pinoys Need Not Present Entry Exemption Doc Starting Aug. 1

    BI announces that starting Aug. 1, its officers at the ports will no longer require the presentation of entry exemption document (EED) from foreign spouses, children and parents of Filipino citizens who are traveling to the Philippines as tourists to visit their kin in the country. The policy is in compliance with IATF’s resolution which eased the entry travel requirements for foreigners related by marriage or filiation to Filipinos. Press Release Re: Alien Spouses, Children, Parents of Pinoys Need Not Present Entry Exemption Doc Starting Aug. 1

    23 July 2021 – Press Release Re: Passengers from 10 Countries Barred Entry

    BI announces that it will be implementing the most recent directive from Malacañang which expanded the travel ban to include passengers coming from Malaysia and Thailand starting 25 July until 31 July 2021. Press Release Re: Passengers from 10 Countries Barred Entry

    02 July 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Clarifies Validated Vax Cards Must Be Presented Upon Arrival

    BI clarifies that fully vaccinated passengers must present documentary proof upon arrival in the country. Press Release Re: BI Clarifies Validated Vax Cards

    01 July 2021 – BI Press Release Re: BI Says Vaccinated Passengers from 57 Countries Need Only Present 7-Day Quarantine Booking

    BI announces that fully vaccinated passengers from 57 countries and places considered as low risk by health authorities are entitled to a shorter quarantine period of seven days upon their arrival in the country. BI Press Release Re: BI Says Vaccinated Passengers from 57 Countries Need Only Present 7-Day Quarantine Booking

    30 June 2021 – BI Press Release Re: BI to Implement Extended Travel Ban Until July 15

    BI announces that it will continue to implement the ban on the entry of all passengers arriving from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman and United Arab Emirates (UAE) until 15 July 2021. BI Press Release Re: BI to Implement Extended Travel Ban Until July 15

    30 June 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Guide on Travel Restrictions as of 28 June 2021

    BI issues the guide on travel restrictions as of 28 June 2021. BI Advisory Re: Guide on Travel Restrictions as of 28 June 2021

    20 June 2021 – Press Release Re: Fully-Vaccinated Passengers Should Still Present Quarantine Booking

    BI reminds passengers arriving from abroad who have been fully vaccinated in the Philippines that they still have to present a seven-day booking in a government-accredited quarantine facility upon their return to the country. BI Press Release 20 June 2021

    17 June 2021 – Public Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 121, Series of 2021

    BI advises of the extended travel restriction until 30 June 2021 for travelers coming from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman and United Arab Emirates, relative to IATF Resolution No. 121, series of 202, dated 14 June 2021. BI Public Advisory 17 June 202

    06 June 2021 – Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 119, Series of 2021

    BI revises its guidelines as of 06 June 2021, per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 119, series of 2021. BI Advisory 06 June 2021

    05 June 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Clarifies Retiree’s Visa Holders Allowed to Enter Without Exemption Docs

    BI Commissioner Morente said in an advisory that following IATF’s most recent resolution, aliens holding the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) are now allowed to enter the country without an entry exemption document. BI Press Release 05 June 2021

    05 June 2021 – Advisory Re: BI Guide on Travel Restrictions Allowed to Travel to the Philippines as of 04 June 2021

    BI issues its latest guide on the travel restrictions for travelers allowed to travel to the country as of 04 June 2021. BI Advisory 05 June 2021

    02 June 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Backs Proposed ‘Green Lane’ for Vaccinated Foreign Travelers to Revive PH Tourism

    BI supports the proposal to allow fully vaccinated foreign nationals to enter the country as part of its efforts to revive the country’s moribund tourism industry and reopen the country’s borders. BI Press Release 02 June 2021

    01 June 2021 – Press Release Re: Travel Ban in 7 Countries Extended, Tourists Still Not Allowed in PH – BI

    BI Commissioner Morente announces its implementation of the extended travel ban on travelers coming from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman and UAE due to emerging COVID-19 variants. BI Press Release 01 June 2021

    30 May 2021 – Advisory Re: Reminder on Entry Exemption Document Validity Date

    BI reminds all concerned that the entry exemption documents issued by the DFA before 8 February 2021 are considered expired by 1 June 2021. Bi further reminds that entry exemption documents issued by the National Task Force for COVID-19 shall be recognized as valid until 31 May 2021. BI Advisory 30 May 2021

    21 May 2021 – Press Release Re: Aliens with Old, Unused Entry Exemptions Docs Considered Expired Starting June 1 – BI

    Bi announces that starting 01 June 2021, it will no longer allow entry of foreign nationals who present entry exemption documents (EEDs) issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) before 08 February this year. BI Press Release 21 May 2021

    20 May 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Offices in NCR+ Remain Open with Skeleton Workforce Under Stricter GCQ

    BI announces that its offices in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces of Laguna, Rizal and Cavite will continue to operate with a skeleton workforce. BI Press Release 20 May 2021

    17 May 2021 – BI Advisory Re: BI Guide on Travel Restrictions

    BI bans the entry of travelers from Oman, United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka until 31 May 2021. BI Advisory 17 May 2021

    15 May 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 115, Series of 2021 and Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated 14 May 2021

    BI advises that passengers who have been to India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman and United Arab Emirates (UAE) are prohibited from entering the Philippines effective 15 May to 31 May 2021. BI Advisory 15 May 2021

    11 May 2021 – Advisory on the Revised Quarantine Guidelines Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 114, Series of 2021

    4BI issues its revised quarantine protocols for all arriving passengers relative to IATF Resolution No. 114 series of 2021. BI Advisory 11 May 2021

    10 May 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Reminds Airlines Not to Board Aliens Disallowed to Enter PH

    BI reminds the different airlines to ensure that only foreigners currently allowed to enter the country are permitted to board their flights bound for the Philippines. BI Press Release 10 May 2021

    06 May 2021 – BI Press Release Re: BI to Implement Expanded Travel Restrictions, Bans Travelers from Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh

    BI announces that they will be implementing an order from Malacañang on the imposition of restrictions for travelers coming from Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh starting May 7. BI Press Release 06 May 2021

    16 May 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Inclusion of Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh in Countries with Imposed Travel Restrictions

    BI advises of the inclusion in countries with imposed travel restrictions of Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, relative to the Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated 05 May 2021. BI Advisory 16 May 2021

    30 April 2021 – Press Release Re: Aliens with Immigrant, Non-Immigrant Visas May Enter PH Beginning May 1

    BI Commissioner Morente announces that they will be implementing the resolution of the IATF allowing the entry of aliens with valid and existing visas beginning May 1. BI Press Release 30 April 2021

    30 April 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines as Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 113 Series of 2021

    BI provides IATF Resolution No. 113 series of 2021, which allows foreign nationals to enter the Philippines beginning May 1, 2021, subject to certain conditions. BI Advisory 30 April 2021

    29 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-049: Amendment to Deadlines Prescribed Under DILG Memorandum Circulars No. 2019-172 and 2021-037 on Comprehensive Development Plan Compliance and Assessment

    Due to the resurgence in COVID-19 cases across the country, DILG extends the deadlines for submission of the corresponding forms/documents for the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) Assessment until 15 December 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-049

    23 April 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Frontliners to Receive First Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine

    BI Commissioner Jaime Morente announces that they are targeting to inoculate a total of 1,250 immigration personnel with the government-procured CoronaVac, the vaccine from Sinovac Biotech, that is administered in two doses in an interval of 28 days. BI Press Release 23 April 2021

    16 April 2021 – Press Release Re: BI: Travel Ban Extended; Aliens with DFA-Issued Travel Exemption Docs Can Now Enter PH

    BI Commissioner Jaime Morente informs that aliens with entry exemption documents issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) before March 22 are now allowed to enter the country during the implementation of travel restrictions, which was extended until April 30. BI Press Release 16 April 2021

    15 April 2021 – Accreditation Advisory Re: Renewal Application for 2021-2022 BI-Accreditation

    BI sets the date for the renewal application for 2021-2022 BI-accreditation from May 01 to 31, 2021. BI Accreditation Advisory 15 April 2021

    09 April 2021 – Press Release Re: Restricted Aliens Traveling to PH for Emergency, Humanitarian Reasons May Seek Exemption from NTF

    BI Commissioner Morente clarifies that entry exemptions issued by other agencies before the travel ban was imposed cannot be used to enter the country during the heightened travel ban, which started last March 22 and ends on April 21. BI Press Release 09 April 2021

    07 April 2021 – Press Release Re: Aliens Not Traveling with Pinoy Kin Can’t Enter PH During Travel Ban – BI

    BI Commissioner Morente reiterates that existing guidelines on international travel set by the IATF, do not allow entry of foreign parents, spouses and children of Filipinos if they are traveling alone. BI Press Release 07 April 2021

    05 April 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Warns Aliens Disregarding Laws During Quarantine Period May Be Deported

    BI Commissioner Morente warns aliens that violating rules set by the IATF may cause filing of deportation charges against them. BI Press Release 05 April 2021

    05 April 2021 – Advisory Dated 05 April 2021

    BI notifies all of its officials, employees, and clients that all BI offices in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal shall continue to operate from 0800H to 1600H and maintain their respective skeletal workforce from April 05 to 11, 2021. 05 April 2021

    31 March 2021 – Press Release Re: Foreign Seafarers with Valid Visas Are Allowed to Enter the Country – Morente

    BI Commissioner Morente clarifies that foreign seafarers with valid 9(c) visas are allowed to enter the country. BI Press Release 31 March 2021

    30 March 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Scales Down Operations in ‘Bubble’ Areas During ECQ

    BI orders all its offices in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) to scale down their operations and downsize their workforce to prevent COVID-19 transmission in their workplaces. BI Press Release 30 March 2021

    29 March 2021 – Press Release Re: Alien Parents of Pinoys with Valid Visas Can Enter PH

    BI announces that foreign parents of Filipino citizens who have valid visas and are traveling with them may now enter the Philippines, pursuant to the latest resolution issued on Thursday the IATF. BI Press Release 29 March 2021

    24 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-035: Compliance to IATF Resolution Nos. 98-A and 101 on Uniform Travel Protocols for Government Officials/Personnel and Other Travelers, and on the Strict Enforcement of Minimum Health Protocols

    DILG issues Memorandum Circular No. 2021-035, to guide Local Government Units (LGUs) regarding IATF Resolution Nos. 98-A and 101, specifically on the unimpeded movement of government personnel carrying out critical government services, and the implementation of uniform travel protocol for land, air, and sea.

    24 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-034: Guidelines to Accelerate the Internet Connectivity and Telecommunication Services to Address the Need for Rapid Digital Transformation in the New Normal

    DILG issues Memorandum Circular No. 2021-034, to apprise all Local Government Units (LGUs) and concerned stakeholders with all necessary steps with the end in view of levelling-up the mobile internet speed across the country. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-034

    Memorandum Circular No. 2021-035

    19 March 2021 – Press Release Re: BI to Implement IATF Order Suspending Entry of Foreign Nationals

    BI Commissioner Morente announces their implementation of the IATF resolution suspending the travel of foreign nationals into the Philippines. BI Press Release 19 March 2021

    19 March 2021 – Revised Guidelines as Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 103 Series of 2021

    BI implements its revised guidelines, pursuant to IATF-MEDI Resolution No. 103 series of 2021. Revised Guidelines as Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 103 Series of 2021

    17 March 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Main Bldg. Still Closed; Will Reopen Thursday

    BI announces the extension of the work suspension in its main office located at Intramuros, Manila until March 17, 2021, to conduct a thorough sanitation and disinfection of the building to prevent the spread of COVID-19. BI Press Release 17 March 2021

    NATIONAL TASK FORCE AGAINST COVID-19

    11 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-031: Lifting of Instructions Under Memorandum Circular 2020-068 or the Postponement of All Administrative Demolition and Eviction Activities

    DILG lifts the postponement of all administrative demolition and eviction activities by the local government units (LGUs) prescribed under Memorandum Circular No. 2020-068, in light of the easing of the quarantine restrictions, and in consideration of the pressing urgency to safeguard the safety of the informal settler families (ISFs). Memorandum Circular No. 2021-031

    14 March 2021 – BI Advisory Dated 14 March 2021

    BI notifies all concerned of its temporary closure on March 15 and 16, 2021, for a thorough sanitation and disinfection, following the upsurge of COVID-19 cases and as a precautionary measure to deter the further spread of the virus. <a href="https://immigration.gov.ph/images/Advisory/2021/03_Mar/2021Mar14_advisory.jpg

    12 March 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Employees Told to Observe Strict Health Protocols Amid Rise in COVID Cases

    BI orders its rank and file employees to strictly observe health protocols amidst the recent upsurge of COVID-19 cases in the country. BI Press Release dated 12 March 2021

    06 March 2021 – Advisory on the Guidelines in Securing Bureau of Immigration Travel Pass

    Bi issues the guidelines in securing its travel pass for departing foreign nationals holding BI-issued Special Non-Immigrant visas that are exempt from payment of ECC Re-Entry Permit/Special Return Certificate, in compliance with the IATF-MEID Resolution No. 99-A. Advisory on the Guidelines in Securing Bureau of Immigration Travel Pass

    05 March 2021 – Advisory Re: Arrival Travel Restrictions

    BI issues the rules for foreign nationals who are already permitted to return to the Philippines pursuant to relevant IATF resolutions but with expired Re-entry Permit (RP)/Special Return Certificate (SRC), in compliance with the Memorandum from the Secretary of Justice dated February 19, 2021, Re: “Foreign Nationals Allowed to Return to the Philippines by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases”. Advisory Re: Arrival Travel Restrictions

    22 February 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Implements Inventory of Foreign Nationals, Expansion of Scope of Allowed Aliens in Country

    BI announces that its implementation of IATF resolutions on the inventory of foreign nationals. BI further mandates visa issuing agencies to a list of foreign nationals to whom they issued visas. BI Press Release dated 22 February 2021

    17 February 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019: Guidelines on the Implementation of Demand Generation and Communication Activities in Support to the National COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment Plan

    DILG issues the policy guidelines in the implementation of the different processes, procedures, and activities related to demand generation and communications for the COVID-19 vaccination program. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019

    13 February 2021 – Press Release Re: BI Readies Implementation of Revised Travel Restrictions

    BI Commissioner Jaime Morente announces of their implementation of the IATF resolution on expanding the list of foreigners allowed entry to the Philippines, starting February 16, 2021. BI Press Release dated 13 February 2021

    12 February 2021 – BI Advisory Dated February 12, 2021: Revised Guidelines as Per IATF-MEID Resolution Nos. 97 and 98 Series of 2021

    BI revises its guidelines on the passengers allowed to travel to the Philippines, pursuant to IATF Resolution Nos. 97 and 98 series of 2021. BI Press Release dated 12 February 2021

    05 February 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-013: Holding of Hearings on Administrative Matters and Cases Under 2017 RACCS Through Video Conferencing

    DILG through its Trial and Investigation Division (TID) provides the procedures in holding hearings of administrative cases involving department personnel covered by the 2017 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service (2017 RACCS), while the country is currently placed under various forms of community quarantine measures to address the spread of COVID-19. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-013

    27 January 2021 – Press Release Re: BI to Implement Inclusion of Czech Republic in Travel Restrictions

    <p class="coviddesc"BI announces its implementation of a directive from the Malacañang to include aliens from Czech Republic in the list of those restricted to enter the country. BI Press Release dated 27 January 2021

    27 January 2021 – Advisory Re: Inclusion of Czech Republic in the List of Countries/Jurisdictions Subjected to Travel Restrictions Relative to the SARS-COV-2 Variant

    BI provides the updated summary of travel-restricted countries, in connection with the guidelines on imposed travel restrictions per BI Advisory dated January 22, 2021, and relative to the Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated January 26, 2021. BI Advisory dated 27 January 2021

    26 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-011: Guidelines for LGU and DILG Field Support for the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Trials

    DILG directs all concerned DILG Regional Offices to coordinate with concerned/identified Local Government Units (LGUs), DILG field offices, and Project Teams on the zoning and implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials, and provide logistic and other non-monetary support necessary to the COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial Project Teams. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-011

    22 January 2021 – Press Release Re: Diplomats, Spouse and Children of Pinoys from 35 Restricted Countries Now Allowed Entry

    BI announces that it will be implementing the IATF Resolution which allows the entry of certain classes of foreign nationals with valid visas effective immediately. BI Press Release 22 January 2021

    16 January 2021 – Press Release Re: UAE, Hungary Added to Travel Restrictions

    BI Commissioner Jaime Morente states that the travel restrictions for arriving foreign nationals have been expanded to include the United araba Emirates (UAE) and Hungary, starting midnight of January 17, 2021. BI Press Release 16 January 2021

    13 January 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Travel Restriction Guidelines to be Observed Relative to the SARS-COV-2 United Kingdom Variant (B.1.1.7. or VUI 2020/12/01) and South African Variant (501.V2)

    BI provides its revised travel restriction guidelines to be observed relative to the SARS-COV-2 United Kingdom and South African variants, to include the countries of Pakistan, Jamaica, Luxembourg, Oman and the People’s Republic of China, as per the Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated January 12, 2021. BI Advisory dated 13 January 2021

    06 January 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Updated Travel Restriction Guidelines of All Travellers from Countries with Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 B117 Strain (SARS-COV-2 Variant Detected in the United Kingdom)

    BI provides its updated travel restriction guidelines for all travellers from countries with confirmed cases of the new COVID-19 variant, in connection with the Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated January 05, 2021, which adds Portugal, India, Finland, Norway, Jordan, and Brazil among the countries/jurisdictions subject to travel restrictions. BI Advisory dated 06 January 2021

    05 January 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Revised Guidelines as Per IATF-MEID Resolution No. 92 Series of 2021

    BI implements its revised guidelines to be observed during the conduct of immigration arrival formalities, in connection with IATF-MEID Resolution No. 92 series of 2021. BI Advisory dated 05 January 2021

    05 January 2021 – BI Advisory Re: Updated Travel Restriction Guidelines of All Travellers from Countries with Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 B117 Strain (SARS-COV-2 Variant Detected in the United Kingdom)

    Bi provides the updated travel restriction guidelines for all travellers from countries with confirmed cases of the new COVID-19 variant, in connection with the Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated December 31, 2020. BI Advisory dated 05 January 2021


    B

    BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE (BIR)

    10 September 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 103-2021: Publishing the Full Text of the Letters from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health (DOH) Containing Updates to the List of VAT-Exempt Products Under Republic Acts (R.A.) Nos. 10963, 11467, and 11534

    BIR publishes the letters from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) dated 31 August 2021 on the “Corrigendum to the List of Medicines for Hypertension, Cancer and Kidney Diseases”, and Department of Health (DOH) letter dated 12 August 2021 on the “List of VAT-Exempt Drugs and Vaccines Prescribed and Directly Used for COVID-19 Treatment”. The letters are being published for the information and guidance of all internal revenue officers, employees and others concerned. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 103-2021

    17 September 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 101-2021: Extension of the Deadline for the Filing of Applications and Suspension of the Ninety (90) Day Processing of Value Added Tax (VAT) Refund Claims Pursuant to Section 112 of the Tax Code of 1997, as Amended by the R.A. No. 10963 (TRAIN Law) with the VAT Credit Audit Division (VCAD)

    BIR extends the deadline for the filing of VAT Refund, where the two (2) year period within which to file the claim falls on 30 September 2021, extending the deadline until 15 October 2021, following the temporary closure of VCAD until 03 October 2021, in compliance with existing health protocols for the mitigation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 101-2021

    16 August 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 99-2021: Clarifying Issues Relative to the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Exemption of Certain Medicines and Other Medical Devices for COVID-19 Under Sections 109(1)(AA) and 109(1)(BB)(ii) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 (Tax Code), as Amended by Republic Act (RA) Nos. 10963 (TRAIN Law), 11467 and 11534 (CREATE Act)

    BIR clarifies the issues and concerns of internal and external stakeholders in relation to its Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 81-2021, which circularized the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) consolidated list of VAT-exempt products (i.e. medicines for hypertension, cancer, mental illness, tuberculosis, kidney diseases, diabetes, and high cholesterol, and medicines and medical devices for COVID-19), pursuant to Republic Act (RA) No. 11534, or the CREATE Act. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 99-2021

    06 August 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 93-2021: Suspension of the Running of the Statute of Limitations on Assessment and Collection of Taxes Pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as Amended, Due to the Declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified ECQ (MECQ) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Other Areas of the Country

    BIR suspends the running of the statute of limitations on assessments and collection of taxes, pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997, due to the declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified ECQ (MECQ) in National Capital Region (NCR) and other areas of the country. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 93-2021

    06 August 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 93-2021: Suspension of the Running of the Statute of Limitations on Assessment and Collection of Taxes Pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as Amended, Due to the Declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified ECQ (MECQ) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Other Areas of the Country

    BIR suspends the running of the statute of limitations on assessments and collection of taxes, pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997, due to the declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified ECQ (MECQ) in National Capital Region (NCR) and other areas of the country. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 93-2021

    06 August 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 92-2021: Extension of the Deadline for Filing of Position Papers, Replies, Protests, Documents and Other Similar Letters and Correspondences in Relation to the Ongoing BIR Audit Investigation and Filing of VAT Refund with the VAT Credit Audit Division (VCAD) Due to the Declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified ECQ (MECQ) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Other Areas of the Country

    In order to provide relief to taxpayers, in relation to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, BIR extends the deadline for filing of papers, letters, and documents falling due on August 6, 2021 and during the ECQ and MECQ period, including extensions thereof, for taxpayers registered with the RDOs in areas covered by the ECQ and MECQ declaration. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 92-2021

    14 April 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 52-2021: Suspension of the Running of the Statute of Limitations on Assessment and Collection of Taxes Pursuant to Section 223 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as Amended, Due to the Declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal (NCR Plus), and Other Applicable Jurisdictions

    BIR suspends the running of the statute of limitations for assessment and collection of deficiency taxes is suspended in the affected jurisdictions while Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) is in effect including any extension/s thereof, and for sixty (60) days thereafter. The suspension of the running of the Statute of Limitations shall apply with respect to the issuance and service of assessment notices, warrants and enforcement, and/or collection of deficiency taxes. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 52-2021

    08 April 2021 – Revenue Regulations No. 1-2021: Implementing the Tax Incentives and Fee Privileges for the Procurement, Importation, Donation, Storage, Transport, Deployment and Administration of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Vaccines Under Section 11 of Republic Act No. 11525, Otherwise Known as the “COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021″

    BIR informs of the VAT, excise and donor’s tax and other fees exemption for the procurement, importation, donation, storage, transport, deployment and administration of COVID-19 vaccines through the COVID-19Vaccination Program. Revenue Regulations No. 1-2021

    05 April 2021 – Revenue Memorandum circular No. 45-2021: Extension of the Deadline for the Filing of Position Papers, Replies, Protests, Documents and Other Similar Letters and Correspondences in Relation to Ongoing BIR Audit lnvestigations, and Filing of VAT Refund with VAT Credit Audit Division (VCAD)

    BIR extends deadline for the filing of Position Papers, Replies, Protests, Documents and other similar letters and correspondences in relation to ongoing BIR audit investigations, and filing of VAT refund with the VAT Credit Audit Division (VCAD). Revenue Memorandum circular No. 45-2021

    29 March 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 41-2021: Filing of Returns as Well as Payment of Taxes Due Thereon Falling Within the Period March 22, 2021 to April 30, 2021

    BIR informs all concerned of the allowing to file their returns, as well as payment of taxes anywhere, even outside the jurisdiction of the Revenue District Office where they are registered. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 41-2021

    25 January 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 29-2021: Allowing the Use of Electronic Signature (e-signature) on Certain Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Forms/Certificates and Providing the Policies and Guidelines Therefor

    BIR provides the policies and guidelines for the use of e-Signature certain BIR Forms/Certificates. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 29-2021

    18 February 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 23-2021: CY 2021 BIR Priority Programs and Projects

    BIR implements its CY 2021 Priority Programs and Projects, in order to generate revenues essential for the government to accelerate the recovery and bolster the resiliency of the Philippine economy, as embodied in Republic Act No. 11494. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 23-2021

    18 February 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 22-2021: Reportorial Requirements on the Exemption from Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) Relief for Qualified Loans Pursuant to Revenue Regulations No. 24-2020 Dated September 14, 2020

    BIR prescribes the reportorial requirements to be submitted by covered institutions and penalties to be imposed, in case of non-compliance to BIR Revenue Regulations No. 24-2020, which exempts from Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) the loans extended or credits restructured granted by covered institutions for loans falling due, or any part thereof, on or before December 31. 2020. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 22-2021

    08 January 2021 – Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 16-2021: List of Recipients of Income Exempt from Income Tax Pursuant to Republic Act (RA) No. 11494 or Bayanihan to Recover as One Act as Implemented Under Revenue Regulations No. 29-2020

    BIR issues the standard format or template for the required lists to be used under Revenue Regulations No. 29-2020. The deadline for the submission of the lists is extended to January 31, 2021. Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 16-2021

    ANNEX A of Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 16-2021:

    ANNEX B of Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 16-2021:


    Commission on Audit

    COMMISSION ON AUDIT (COA)

    16 July 2021 – Circular No. 2021-002: Guidelines on the Submission in Electronic Format of Reports on the Receipts and Utilizations of Funds Under Section 14 of Republic Act No. 11494 or “Bayanihan to Recover as One Act” (Bayanihan 2)

    COA issues the guidelines on the submission in electronic format of reports on the receipts and utilizations of funds under Section 14 of Republic Act No. 11494. Circular No. 2021-002


    Court of Tax Appeals

    COURT OF TAX APPEALS (CTA)


    Department of Agriculture

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (DA)


    dbm logo

    DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND MANAGEMENT (DBM)

    12 August 2021 – Local Budget Circular No. 139 s. 2021: Guidelines on the Release and Utilization of Additional Financial Assistance to Local Government Units Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine

    DBM issues the guidelines and procedures on the release and utilization of the financial assistance to the cities and municipalities under NCR which was placed under ECQ pursuant to IATF-MEID Resolution No. 130-A dated 29 July 2021. Local Budget Circular No. 139 s. 2021

    06 August 2021 – Local Budget Circular No. 138 s. 2021: Guidelines on the Release Utilization of the Financial Assistance to Local Government Units Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine Pursuant to IATF-MEID Resolution No. 130-A

    DBM issues the guidelines and procedures on the release and utilization of the financial assistance to the cities and municipalities under NCR which was placed under ECQ pursuant to IATF-MEID Resolution No. 130-A dated 29 July 2021. Local Budget Circular No. 138 s. 2021

    24 May 2021 – National Budget Memorandum No. 140 s. 2021: Budget Priorities Framework for the Preparation of the FY 2022 Agency Budget Proposals Under Tier 2

    DBM provides the strategic programs which shall be prioritized for Tier 2 funding for FY 2022, in light of the continued COVID-19 recovery efforts and the meager fiscal space. National Budget Memorandum No. 140 s. 2021

    21 May 2021 – National Budget Circular No. 586 s. 2021: Guidelines for the Identification of Agency Savings under the FY 2020 GAA (RA No. 11465) for Purposes of Augmentation of Appropriations Therein Due to the Continuing COVID-19 Pandemic

    DBM prescribes the guidelines for the agency submission of certification of savings and documents/reports to the DBM to be used as bases for the identification of savings corresponding to unobligated FY 2020 GAA-covered allotment balances as of May 15, 2021. National Budget Circular No. 586 s. 2021

    30 March 2021 – Local Budget Circular No. 136 s. 2021: Guidelines on the Release and Utilization of the Financial Assistance to Cities and Municipalities in the National Capital Region (NCR) and in the Provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, Collectively Known as the “NCR Plus,” That Are Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine

    DBM prescribes the guidelines and procedures on the release and utilization of the financial assistance to the cities and municipalities in the NCR Plus. Local Budget Circular No. 136 s. 2021


    Department of Energy

    DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY (DOE)

    03 August 2021 – Advisory Re: ECQ/MECQ in Various Areas Affecting the Energy Industry

    DOE issued the advisory allowing the energy sector to operate with an on-site skeleton workforce during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), and full on-site capacity during the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). DOE Advisory dated 03 August 2021

    02 March 2021 – DOE Advisory Dated 02 March 2021: Ensuring Reliable and Stable Electric Power Supply During the Government’s COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Program

    DOE enjoins all generation companies, including government-owned and controlled corporations and private sector-operated and/or-owned generation facilities o ensure reliable and stabled electric power during the government’s COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Program by the end of the first quarter of 2021. DOE Advisory dated 02 March 2021

    16 February 2021 – Advisory Re: Ensuring Reliable and Stable Electric Power Supply During the Government’s COVID-19 Vaccine Roll-Out Program

    The DOE Secretary enjoins all distribution utilities (DUs) to ensure continuous reliable and stable electric power supply to COVID-19 vaccine cold storage facilities and healthcare facilities, in view of the government’s COVID-19 Vaccination Roll Out Program by the end of the first quarter of 2021. DOE Advisory dated 16 February 2021


    Department of Environment and Natural Resources

    DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DENR)


    Department of Finance

    DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE (DOF)

    05 January 2021 – IRR of Section 4 (NNN) of Republic Act No. 11494, Otherwise Known as, “The Bayanihan to Recover as One Act”

    DOF-DENR-DTI issues the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Section 4 (NNN) of Republic Act No. 11494 or the “Bayanihan to Recover as One Act” IRR of Section 4 (NNN) of Republic Act No. 11494


    Department of Health

    DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (DOH)

    16 November 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0061: DOH-CHED Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2021-0002 Entitled “Interim Guidelines on the Voluntary Participation of Postgraduate/Undergraduate Interns, Clinical Clerks and Fourth Year Nursing Students in the COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment and Vaccination Program”

    DOH disseminates to all concerned its Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on the interim guidelines on the voluntary participation of postgraduate/undergraduate interns, clinical clerks and fourth year Nursing students in the COVID-19 vaccine deployment and vaccination program. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0061

    15 October 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0468: Health Technology Assistant Council (HTAC) Recommendations on COVID-19 Vaccination of the Pediatric Population”

    DOH informs all concerned that the DOH Secretary approves the HTAC recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination of the pediatric population. Department Circular No. 2021-0468

    08 October 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0441-A: Amendment to Department Circular No. 2021-0441 Dated September 17, 2021 Entitled “Updated Suggested Retail Price (SRPs) for Emergency Essential Medicines and Medical Devices Due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Health Event as of September 29, 2021”

    DOH amends its Department Circular No. 2021-0441 dated 17 September 2021, in light of the shortage of supplies of Tociluzumab 80 mg/4 mL Vial. – Department Circular No. 2021-0441

    07 October 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0056: DOH-NTF Against COVID-19 Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0002 entitled, “Operational Guidelines for the Donation and Subsequent Reallocation of Privately-Procured COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to the National Government, Local Government Units (LGUs) and Other Private Sector Entities”

    DOH disseminates the joined DOH-NTF Against COVID-19 Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0002 entitled, “Operational Guidelines for the Donation and Subsequent Reallocation of Privately-Procured COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to the National Government, Local Government Units (LGUs) and Other Private Sector Entities” dated 05 October 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0056

    06 October 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0453: Circulation of the COVID-19 Waste Management Sourcebook Developed Through the Philippines COVID-19 Emergency Response Project

    DOH circulates the COVID-19 Waste Management Sourcebook developed through the Philippines COVID-19 Emergency Response Project (PCERP), which aims to strengthen the Philippines’ capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to the threat posed by COVID-19 and strengthen national systems for public health. Department Circular No. 2021-0453

    06 October 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0448: Reiteration of Department Memorandum No. 2020-0512, Entitled, “Revised Omnibus Interim Guidelines on Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration Strategies for COVID-19” on the Use of Antigen Testing in Select Setting

    DOH reiterates the guidelines provided in its Department Circular no. 2020-0512, entitled, Revised Omnibus Interim Guidelines on Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration Strategies for COVID-19, Section Il or the General Guidelines, Sub-section L.2 – Department Circular No. 2021-0448

    05 October 2021 – DOH-NTF Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0002: Operational Guidelines for the Donation and Subsequent Reallocation of Privately-Procured COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to the National Government, Local Government Units (LGUs), and Other Private Sector Entities

    DOH and NTF jointly provides operational guidelines in the facilitation of donations and/or reallocation of COVID-19 Vaccines procured and owned by the Private Sector to the National Government, LGUs and/or to other Private Sector entities. DOH-NTF Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0002

    30 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0449: Interim Operational Guidelines on the Rollout of the National COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment and Vaccination Program to the Rest of the Adult Population

    DOH expands and opens the COVID-19 vaccination services to the Rest of the Adult Program, to facilitate ease of implementation and to ensure that sufficient vaccine recipients are mobilized to receive the COVID-19 vaccines once distributed to respective local government units (LGU). Department Circular No. 2021-0449

    23 September 2021 – DOH-DTI-DOLE-DILG-DoTr-DPWH-PSC-GAB Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001-A: Amendment of Joint Memorandum Circular of Department of Health-Department of Trade and industry-Department of Labor and Employment-Department of the Interior and Local Government-Department of Transportation-Department of Public Works and Highways-Philippine Sports Commission-Games and Amusement Board entitled, “Clarificatory Guidelines on the Mandatory Use of Face Shields Outside of Residence for COVID-19 Mitigation”

    DOH, DTI, DOLE, DILG, DoTr, DOWH, PSC and GAB promulgates the amendment into its Joint Memorandum Circular regarding the clarificatory guidelines on the mandatory use of face shields outside of residence. DOH-DTI-DOLE-DILG-DoTr-DPWH-PSC-GAB Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001-A

    17 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0441: Updated Suggested Retail Price (SRPs) for Emergency Essential Medicines and Medical Devices Due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Health Event as of September 29, 2021

    DOH issues the updated Suggested Retail Price (SRPs) for Emergency Essential Medicines and Medical Devices Due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Health Event as of September 29, 2021, for dissemination to all concerned. Department Circular No. 2021-0441

    15 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0439: Operational Guidelines on the Reverse Logistics of COVID-19 Vaccines

    DOH issues the Department Circular No. 2021-0439, to provide interim operational guidelines on the COVID-19 Vaccination Reverse Logistics process flow as well as the specific roles and responsibilities of focal persons in vaccination sites, cities/municipalities, provinces and regions involved in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program and health care waste management. Department Circular No. 2021-0439

    20 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0351: Updates and Clarification on the Commission in Audit (COA) Findings on the DOH COVID-19 Funds

    DOH provides updates and clarifications on the COA findings on its COVID-19 Funds as reported in the Consolidated Annual Audit Report for FY 2020. Department Circular No. 2021-0351

    10 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0407: Submission of Updated COVID-19 Test Price for Posting to the Department of Health Website

    DOH mandates all DOH-licensed COVID-19 testing laboratories, whether plate-based or cartridge-based to submit their updated test price for COVID-19, updated as of 06 September 2021, through the Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau via https:/hfsrb.doh.gov.ph/covid19-testing-price-survey2021/ on or before 20 September 2021. Department Circular No. 2021-0407

    01 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0396: Reiteration of Department Circular No. 2021-0323 on Price Cap for COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing

    DOH reiterates its Department Circular No. 2021-0323 dated August 6, 2021 entitled, “Price Cap for COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing”. All COVID-19 testing facilities/laboratories are strictly advised to comply with the set price. Department Circular No. 2021-0396

    23 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0392: DBM Letter on Clarification/Guidelines Regarding Various Concerns on Bayanihan II Unpaid Obligations as of June 30, 2021

    DOH disseminates to all concerned the DBM letter on the clarification/guidelines on how the offices/hospitals under DOH may settle the unpaid obligations of various transactions sourced from Republic Act No. 11494 (Bayanihan II) for disbursement period of 30 June 2021. Department Circular No. 2021-0392

    31 August 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-0043: Omnibus Guidelines on the Minimum Public Health Standards for the Safe Reopening of Institutions

    DOH issues the minimum public health standards following the Prevent, Detect, Isolate, Treat, Reintegrate and Vaccine (PDITR+) strategies to be implemented across all settings as the guide for the safe reopening of the different sectors of the economy. Administrative Order No. 2021-0043

    31 August 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-0042: Guidelines for COVID-19 Surge Response of Health Facilities

    DOH issues the guidelines for COVID-19 surge response of health facilities, in line with the higher transmissibility rates of COVID-19 variants such as the Alpha and Delta variants. Administrative Order No. 2021-0042

    26 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0374: Price Cap for COVID-19 Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Reaction (RT-PCR) Testing

    DOH issues the price caps for public and private health facilities, including Home Service for the Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Reaction (RT-PCR) plate-based and cartridge-based testing effective 06 September 2021. Department Circular No. 2021-0374

    24 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0375: Reiteration of Functions of Infection Control Committees in Health Facilities and Modification of Staffing Patterns and Further Clarification of the Shortening of Quarantine for the Health Workers

    DOH reiterates its Department Circular No. 2020-0181, wherein all heath facilities are instructed to activate their Infection Control Committee (ICC) and Infection Control Team, who are responsible for the implementation of their COVID-19 Infection and Prevention Control (IPC) protocols and policies. DOH further authorizes the hospital infection control committees to implement shortened quarantine protocols for their fully vaccinated healthcare workers consistent with health care capacity needs and individualized risk assessment. Department Circular No. 2021-0375

    23 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0362: Orientation on the WHO COVID-19 Essential Supplies Forecasting Tool (COVID-EFST) and Pharmaceutical Management Information System (PMIS)

    DOH informs all concerned of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) conduct of orientation on the use of the COVID-19 Essential Supplies Forecasting Tool (COVID-EFST) version 4 on 26 August 2021, 2:00 PM for all COVID-19 referral hospitals. Department Circular No. 2021-0362

    13 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0102-A: Amendment to Department Circular No. 2021-102 Dated 09 March 2021 Entitled “Updating of Timing of Blood Donation When Donors Receive COVID-19 Vaccine in the A to Z Guide to Medical Assessment of Blood Donors”

    The National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP) and National Council for Blood Services – Technical Committee (Core Group) issue the recommended list of deferral periods for individuals who have received a vaccine against COVID-19 prior to blood donation. Department Circular No. 2021-0102-A

    20 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0355: Guidelines in the Conduct of Distance Monitoring of Health Facilities

    DOH issues the guidelines in the conduct of distance monitoring of health facilities, in order to conduct continuous monitoring of the said facilities in consideration of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Department Circular No. 2021-0355

    20 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0351: Updates and Clarification on the Commission on Audit (COA) Findings on the DOH COVID-19 Funds

    DOH issues providing updates and clarifications on the Commission on Audit (COA) findings on the DOH COVID-19 funds as reported in the Consolidated Annual Audit Report for FY 2020. Department Circular No. 2021-0351

    20 August 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0350: Reiteration of Guidance on the Use of COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kits

    DOH issues its guidance for all partners and stakeholders to take necessary steps in addressing the ongoing global concern on the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and to provide information on the proper protocol for the use of COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kits. Department Circular No. 2021-0350

    03 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0042: DICT-DOH-DILG-FDA Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0001 Entitled “Guidelines on the Implementation of the Philippine COVID-19 Vaccine Information Management System”

    DICT, DOH, DILG and FDA issues the guidelines in the implementation of Philippine COVID-19 Vaccine Information Management System (VIMS) in accordance with the rules set forth under Section 12(g) of Republic Act (RA) 11525, DOH Administrative No. 2021-0005, and the IATF-MEID directives under Resolution Nos. 85 (s. 2020) and 96 (s. 2021). Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0042

    03 August 2021 – DICT-DOH-DILG-FDA Joint Administrative Circular No. 2021-0001: Guidelines on the Implementation of the Philippine COVID-19 Vaccine Information Management System

    DICT, DOH, DILG and FDA issues the guidelines on the implementation of the Philippine COVID-19 Vaccine Information Management System (VIMS), to further set guidelines in the implementation of Philippine COVID-19 VIMS in accordance with the rules set forth under Section 12(g) of Republic Act (RA) No. 11525, the DOH Administrative Order (AO) No. 2021-0005, and the IATF-MEID directives under Resolutions Nos. 85 (s. 2020) and 96 (s. 2021). DICT-DOH-DILG-FDA Joint Administrative Circular No. 2021-0001

    23 July 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0314: Contingency Emergency Response Component — Emergency Response Operations Manual (CERC-EROM) of the World Bank – Philippines COVID-19 Emergency Response Project (PCERP) Under Loan Nos. 9105-PH and 9220-PH

    DOH disseminates Contingency Emergency Response Component – Emergency Response Operations Manual (CERC-EROM) of the World Bank – Philippines COVID-19 Emergency Response Project (PCERP), which will provide immediate and effective response in case of crisis emergency. Department Circular No. 2021-0314

    28 June 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0034: PSC-GAB-DO Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0002 Supplemental Guidelines to the Joint Administrative Order No. 2020-0001 Entitled “Guidelines on the Conduct of Health Enhancing Physical Activities and Sports during the COVID-19 Pandemic” Relative to the Conduct of Athletic Bubble-Type Training and Competitions During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    DOH disseminates the supplemental guidelines on the conduct of health enhancing physical activities and sports during the COVID-19 pandemic, jointly issued by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Games and Amusements Board (GAB) and DOH. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0034

    18 June 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0259: Public Consultation on the Draft Administrative Order (AO) Entitled, “Guidelines on the Sponsorship of DOH in the Conduct of Clinical Trials for COVID-19 Investigational Products”

    DOH enjoins all its stakeholders to review the draft policy on the sponsorship of DOH in the conduct of clinical trials for COVID-19 investigational products and submit any comments, questions, suggestions or position papers to its Policy, Program Development and Research Unit (PPDRU) through email at [email protected] on or before 07 July 2021. Department Circular No. 2021-0259

    16 June 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0031: DOH-NTF-DFA-FDA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0001 Entitled “Guidelines for the Implementation of a COVID-19 Vaccination Program for Diplomatic Missions and Foreign Nationals”

    DOH-NTF-DFA-FDA jointly issues the guidelines for the implementation of a COVID-19 Vaccination Program for Diplomatic Missions and Foreign Nationals, to establish mechanisms for the procurement, importation, logistics management, and administration of COVID-19 vaccines for foreign nationals, regardless of immigration status, in accordance with the Philippine National Deployment and Vaccination Plan. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0031

    10 June 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0029: DOH-NTF COVID-19 Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0001 Entitled “Procedures on the Procurement and Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines for Private Entities”

    DOH provides its Joint Memorandum Circular with NTF on the procedures on procurement and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines for private entities, to establish the mechanisms for the procurement and receipt of CVOID-19 vaccines by private entities for their respective employees and their designated persons in accordance with the COVID-19 Vaccination Program. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0029

    27 May 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0247: Immediate Provision of Access to Medical Records by Hospitals to Epidemiology and Surveillance Units to Aid Investigation of Adverse Events Following Immunization

    DOH reminds all healthcare providers and health facilities are reminded to strictly and immediately comply with the submission of medical records and other pertinent records requested by the Regional and Local Epidemiology and Surveillance Units, for the timely and comprehensive investigation of Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFIs). partment Circular No. 2021-0247

    24 May 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0223: Monthly Survey on the Costing of Prices by the DOH Licensed for Plate-Based and Cartridge-Based RT-PCR Tests by Licensed COVID-19 Testing Laboratories

    DOH requires all DOH licensed COVID-19 testing laboratories, performing either plate-based RT-PCR or cartridge-based RT-PCR to participate in the monthly survey on the costing of prices of plate-based and catridge-based RT-PCR tests. Department Circular No. 2021-0223

    19 May 2021 – DOH-DILG-PHILHEALTH Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0001: Guidelines on the Implementation of Telemedicine in the Delivery of Individual-Based Health Services

    DOH adopts and implements the telemedicine as an integral mode for the delivery of individual-based health services, which is widely adopted, especially during recent events of public health concern such as the COVID-19 pandemic. DOH-DILG-PHILHEALTH Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0001

    18 May 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0192: Workshop on Minimizing COVID-19 Vaccine Wastage of the US Pharmacopeia on June 9, 2021

    DOH disseminates the free webcast of the US Pharmacopeia on the Workshop on Minimizing COVID-19 Vaccine Wastage, to be held on June 09, 2021. Department Circular No. 2021-0192

    12 May 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0187: Reiteration of Department Memorandum No. 2021-0223 Dated May 6, 2021 Entitled, “Updated List for the Suggested Retail Price of Essential Emergency Medicines and Medical Devices Due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) Health Event

    DOH reiterates its Department Memorandum No. 2021-0223, dated 06 May 2021, to provide guidance to all its partners and stakeholders to take necessary steps to address the ongoing global concern on the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Department Circular No. 2021-0187

    15 April 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0142: Updated Project Operations Manual for the World Bank Funded Project “Philippines COVID-19 Emergency Response Project (PCERP) Under Loan Number 9105-Ph and 9220-Ph Respectively”

    DOH provides the updated Project Operations Manual (POM) as of April 2021 for the implementation of the World Bank Funded Project “Philippines COVID- 19 Emergency Response Project’ under Loan Nos. 9105-PH and 9220-PH. The project manual specifies the standard operating procedures for the implementation of PCERP both for the parent project, and the additional financing intended for the procurement of vaccines against COVID-19 and the implementation of the National Vaccine Deployment Plan (NVDP), and the roles and responsibilities of various DOH units at the Central Office, the Centers for Health Development (CHDs), and recipients of the World Bank support. Department Circular No. 2021-0142

    13 April 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0138: Reiteration of Department Memorandum No. 2020-0541, Titled “Interim Guidelines in the Regulation of Hospital Extension Facilities for COVID-19 Patients”

    DOH reiterates its Department Memorandum No. 2020-0541 in anticipation for the demand for additional hospital beds to cater to patients afflicted with COVID-19. Department Circular No. 2021-0138

    05 April 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0122: Reiteration of Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration (PDITR) Strategies for COVID-19 in Light of the Implementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine in NCR Plus Bubble

    4DOH reiterates its Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration (PDITR) strategies, in light of the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal. Department Circular No. 2021-0122

    31 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0118: Continuity of Operations of Private COVID-19 Testing Laboratories During the Observance of the Holy Week

    DOH strongly encourages all private DOH-licensed COVID-19 Testing Laboratories to continue their full operations even during the observance of Holy Week holidays. Department Circular No. 2021-0118

    29 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0015: DOH-NTF JAO No. 2021-0001 Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Republic Act No. 11525 Known as “An Act Establishing the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Expediting the Vaccine Procurement and Administration Process, Providing Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes

    DOH disseminates DOH-NTF Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2021-0001, entitled, “Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Republic Act No. 11525 Known as “An Act Establishing the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Expediting the Vaccine Procurement and Administration Process, Providing Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes”. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0015

    04 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0107: Endorsement of the Monitoring Tool to Check for Compliance to the Set Price Range for Plate-Based (PB) COVID-19 RT-PCR Testing

    DOH endorses the for official use among CHD/RLED/BARMM RLEC regulatory officers the enhanced monitoring tool, to ensure uniformity in the conduct of monitoring for compliance to the set price range for plate-based (PB) COVID-19 RT-PCR testing. Department Circular No. 2021-0107

    11 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0101: Clarification on Provisions of Department Memorandum 2021-0099 Entitled the “Interim Omnibus Guidelines for the Implementation of the National Vaccine Deployment Plan for COVID-19

    DOH clarifies the policy directions for the ongoing implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine deployment program Department Circular No. 2021-0101

    09 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0102: Updating of Timing of Blood Donation When Donors Receive COVID-19 Vaccine in the A to Z Guide to Medical Assessment of Blood Donors

    DOH updates the list of vaccines with deferral period of blood donation for individuals who have received a vaccination against COVID-19. Department Circular No. 2021-0102

    11 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0091: Reiteration of Standards in the Use of COVID-19 Testing Kits for Research and Evaluation Purposes

    DOH reiterates its 2017 National Ethical Guidelines for Health and Health Related Research, to ensure that research involving the use of COVID-19testing kits is ethically done. Department Circular No. 2021-0091

    04 March 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0082: Adoption of the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, Inc. (PSAAI) Guidance on the prevention, Diagnosis and Management of Immediate Severe Allergic Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccines

    DOH disseminates the PSAAI protocol/algorithm on the prevention, diagnosis and management of immediate severe allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines, for the information of all its concerned stakeholders. Department Circular No. 2021-0082

    01 March 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-0022: Guidelines on the Facilitation and Management of Donations to the Health Sector During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    DOH issues the guidelines on the facilitation and management of donations to the health sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, to provide a rational and systematic procedure for the assessment, approval, shipping, clearance, tax exemption, delivery and inspection, management, distribution, monitoring and reporting of foreign and local donations specifically for the COVID-19 response of DOH. Administrative Order No. 2021-0022

    10 February 2021 – CHED-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001: Guidelines on the Gradual Reopening of Campuses of Higher Education Institutions for Limited Face-to-Face Classes During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    CHED and DOH provide the guidelines for higher education institutions (HEIs) intending to hold limited face-to-face classes during the COVID-19 pandemic and are willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses based on their capability to comply with health and safety protocols, to retrofit, and to get the support of their stakeholders. CHED-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001

    04 February 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0055: Interim Guidelines on the Prioritization Framework for the Philippine National Deployment and Vaccination Plan and Its Initial Roll-out of the First Tranche of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccines

    DOH provides further guidance to implementers in the adoption and adherence to the prioritization framework and the initial roll-out of the first tranche of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines according to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF Resolution No. 98 Section A. Department Circular No. 2021-0055

    02 February 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0051: Submission of Data to the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) for COVID-19 Vaccine Evaluation Under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)

    DOH requests all vaccine manufacturers which concurrently have submission of an application for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to have a parallel submission to the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) of the safety, efficacy and cost data, as well as other information that will impact on the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccination program. Department Circular No. 2021-0051

    01 February 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0052: Dissemination of Assessment Tool on Health Care Access During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    DOH requests all government hospitals and medical centers to complete the Assessment Tool on Health Care Access During the COVID-19 Pandemic on or before February 15, 2021, to provide new insights for the DOH in recommending new directions and possibly future iterations of the community quarantine measures that balance risk from COVID-19 exposure and risk from foregone care. Department Circular No. 2021-0052

    29 January 2021 – DOH Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0007: DOH-DTI-DOLE-DILG-DOTr-DPWH-PSC-GAB Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0001 Entitled “Clarificatory Guidelines on the Mandatory Use of Face Shields Outside of Residence for COVID-19 Mitigation”

    DOH disseminates DOH-DTI-DOLE-DILG-DOTr-DPWH-PSC-GAB Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0001 dated January 12, 2021, clarifying the guidelines on the mandatory use of face shields outside of residence for the mitigation of COVID-19. DOH Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0007

    19 January 2021 – DOH Department Circular No. 2021-0045: Extension of the Validity of the Mother- and Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (MBFHI), Mother-and-Baby-Friendly Workplace (MBFW), and Care for Small Baby (CSB) Accreditation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    DOH extends the validity of Mother- and Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (MBFHI) certifications and accreditations, and the Mother-and-Baby-Friendly Workplace (MBFW) certifications until June 2021. DOH Department Circular No. 2021-0045

    27 January 2021 – DOH Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0006: DTI-DOLE-DOH Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0001 Entitled “Health and Safety Protocols for the Conduct of Film and Audiovisual Production Shoots and Audiovisual Activities during COVID-19 Pandemic”

    DOH disseminates DTI-DOLE-DOH Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0001 dated January 12, 20211 to provide guidance to all companies and workers for the resumption of production shoots of film and the audiovisual content and other audiovisual activities following the established minimum public health standards for COVID-19 mitigation within various levels of community quarantine. DOH Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0006

    25 January 2021 – DOH Department Circular No. 2021-0039: WHO Update on Additional ICD-10 Categories for COVID-19

    In its Update 4, the World Health Organization (WHO), agreed to adopt a set of additional ICD-10 categories to document or flag presentation for immunization to prevent COVID-19 and an adverse reaction a COVID-19 vaccine. DOH Department Circular No. 2021-0039

    22 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0004: DOH-DILG Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2020-0001-A “Amendment to Joint Administrative Order No. 2020-0001 entitled “Guidelines on Local Isolation and General Treatment Areas for COVID-19 Cases (LIGTAS COVID-19) and the Community-Based Management of Mild COVID-19 Cases”

    DOH circularizes the DOH-DILG Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2020-001-A, which amend Joint Administrative Order No. 2020-0001 on the Guidelines on Local Isolation and General Treatment Areas for COVID-19 Cases (LIGTAS COVID-19) and the Community-Based Management of Mild COVID-19 Cases. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0004

    19 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0018: Survey on the COVID-19 Testing Price Offered by COVID-19 Testing Laboratories Performing Cartridge-Based RT-PCR

    DOH informs all concerned of its conduct of survey to determine the current prices offered by the cartridge-based COVID-19 testing laboratories, performing cartridge-based RT-PCR, as well as gather information that may be used as reference in proposing the recommended price range for cartridge-based RT-PCR. Department Circular No. 2021-0018

    18 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0016: Monitoring of Compliance to the Implementation of the Mandated Price Range for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Reaction in all COVID-19 Testing Laboratories

    DOH directs all Health Development Regulation, Licensing and Enforcement Division (CHD-RLED) and the Ministry of Health Bangsamoro in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regulation, Licensing and Enforcement Cluster (MOH-BARMM RLEC) to monitor the cost and the compliance to the implementation of the mandated price range for Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Reaction (RT-PCR) in all COVID-19 Testing Laboratories. Department Circular No. 2021-0016

    15 January 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2020-0016-B: Further Amendment to Administrative Order No. 2020-0016 Entitled, “Minimum Health System Capacity Standards for COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Strategies”

    To align with its existing policies, the DOH amends Section V of its Administrative Order no. 2020-0016. Administrative Order No. 2020-0016-B

    14 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0009: Department of Health’s Strategic Plan for COVID-19 Vaccination (2021-2023) and National Strategic Policy Framework for COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment and Immunization

    DOH its Strategic Plan for COVID-19 Vaccination (2021-2023), outline its overall thrusts and direction which shall be the guideposts for operational and financial planning towards vaccine accessibility for all. Department Circular No. 2021-0009

    12 January 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-0005: National Strategic Policy Framework for COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment and Immunization

    DOH provides the strategic policy guidance and direction on the selection, access, deployment of the COVID-19 immunization program. Administrative Order No. 2021-0005

    08 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0006: Guidelines in the Conduct of Virtual Inspection for the Licensing of Health Facilities

    DOH issues the guidelines on the conduct of virtual inspection for the licensing of health Facilities, to ensure public health safety amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Department Circular No. 2021-0006

    04 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 2021-0016: Issuance of Certificate of Compliance for COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Collecting Facility for the Year 2021

    DOH issues Department Circular No. 2021-0016, to provide guidelines and mechanics for the issuance of Certificate of Compliance for all Convalescent Plasma (CP) Collecting Facilities. Department Circular No. 2021-0016


    Department of Information and Communications Technology

    DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (DICT)

    29 January 2021 – Department Circular No. 1 s. 2021: Terms of Engagement with Partner Institutions in the Implementation of Digital Education Program Under Department Circular (DC) No. 12, S. 2020, and Expanded Pilot Project for Cybersafe Learning for Education Under DC 12-D, S. 2020, in Response to the State of Public Health Emergency Due to COVID-19

    DICT issues the guidelines in the implementation of the Digital Education Program (DEP)and Cybersafe Learning for Education (CLE) Project, in light of the declared State of Public Health Emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Department Circular No. 1 s. 2021


    Department of Justice

    DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (DOJ)

    15 September 2021 – Department Circular No. 022 s. 2021: Guidelines to be Observed During the Implementation of the Alert System for COVID-19 Response on the National Capital Region Beginning 16 September 2021

    In view of the implementation of the COVID-19 Alert Level System in the National Capital Region (NCR), DOJ Offices and City Prosecution Offices in the NCR adopts the work arrangements beginning 16 September 2021, depending on the Alert Level declared in the said area. Department Circular No. 022 s. 2021

    11 August 2021 – Guidelines for the Processing of Applications for the Issuance of Special Non-Immigrant Visas (Pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 131-A, series of 2021)

    DOJ issues the guidelines for the processing of applications for the issuance of special non-immigrant visas, in compliance with IATF Resolution No. 131-A, series of 2021, to enable essential foreign workers to come to the Philippines under appropriate work visas. Guidelines for the Processing of Applications for the Issuance of Special Non-Immigrant Visas

    31 May 2021 – DILG-PNP-DOJ Joint Memorandum Circular No. 001 s. 2021: Guidelines Governing Violations of Health and Safety Ordinances, Quarantine-Related Violations, and Other Related Violations During the Public Health Emergency

    DILG, PNP and DOJ issue the guidelines on violations of health and safety ordinances, quarantine-related violations and other related violations during the public health emergency. DILG-PNP-DOJ Joint Memorandum Circular No. 001 s. 2021

    14 May 2021 – Department Circular No. 10 s. 2021: Guidelines for the Duration of the General Community Quarantine (15-30 May 2021)

    DOJ adjusts its on-site work to 30% of the personnel of each office or unit. Department Circular No. 10 s. 2021


    Department of Labor and Employment

    DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT (DOLE)

    12 October 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 17 s. 2021: Submission of Monthly Reports and Renewal of PEA License

    DOLE clarifies the guidelines on the submission of private employment agency (PEA) reports and renewal of PEA license in light of the pandemic, consistent with the policy objectives of DOLE Department Order Nos. 216 and 217 for industry and domestic workers. Labor Advisory No. 17 s. 2021

    28 September 2021 – Department Order No. 227-21: Supplemental Guidelines on the Implementation of DOLE AKAP for OFWs Per DOLE Department Order No. 220-20

    DOLE issues the supplemental guidelines for Sections 7 and 9 of its Department Order No. 220-20, or the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of the DOLE Financial Assistance Program (DOLE-AKAP) under Bayanihan 2. Department Order No. 227-21

    31 August 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 16-21: Issuance of Alien Employment Permit (AEP) or Certificate of Exemption / Exclusion to Foreign Nationals Intending to Come to the Philippines for Long-Term Employment

    DOLE issues the Advisory governing the issuance of Alien Employment Permit (AEP) or Certificate of Exemption / Exclusion (COE), for applications filed by the Philippine-based Employer, for foreign nationals (FNs) intending to come to the Philippines for long-term employment (more than six (6) months), pursuant to the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 001, Series of 2019or the “Rules and Procedures Governing Foreign Nationals Intending to Work in the Philippines” and the IATF-MEID Resolution No. 131-A dated 05 August 2021. Labor Advisory No. 16-21

    05 May 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 10 s. 2021: Closure of Online Applications for COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program Tourism Sector Financial Assistance Under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act

    DOLE announces the closure of the online applications for the Php5,000.00 financial assistance under the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) for the Tourism Sector. Labor Advisory No. 10 s. 2021

    03 May 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 09-21: WAIR COVID Form

    DOLE advises/encourages establishments to submit online their monthly COVID-19 Prevention and Control Compliance Report (WAIR COVID19 Form) through the DOLE Establishment Report System (https://reports.dole.gov.ph). Labor Advisory No. 09-21

    01 May 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 08-21: Promotion of COVID-19 Vaccination in the Private Sector

    DOLE provides the supplemental guidelines for Labor Advisory No. 09 series of 2021, which encourages employees in the private sector to get inoculated with COVID-19 vaccine. Labor Advisory No. 08-21

    31 March 2021 – Advisory No. 06 s. 2021: Processing of CAMP Bayanihan 2 Tourism Sector Applications

    DOLE issues Labor Advisory No. 06 series of 2021, to endorse applications for payment to another DOLE Regional Office (RO) in the event of depleted funds in the RO of jurisdiction. Advisory No. 06 s. 2021

    12 March 2021 – Labor Advisory No. 03-21: Guidelines on the Administration of COVID-19 Vaccines in the Workplaces

    DOLE issues the guidelines for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines in workplaces for establishments and employers in the private sector. Labor Advisory No. 03-21

    03 March 2021 – Department Order No. 224-21: Guidelines on Ventilation for Workplaces and Public Transport to Prevent and Control the Spread of COVID-19

    DOLE issues the guidelines to improve and maintain the quality of ventilation in workplaces and public transport, to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 virus at the workplace. Department Order No. 224-21

    BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION

    03 February 2021 – DOLE-DOT Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001: Amended Implementing Guidelines on Providing Financial Assistance and Cash-For-Work Program for Displaced Workers in Tourism Sector

    DOLE and DOT amend the implementing guidelines on the provision of Financial Assistance and Cash-For-Work Program for Displaced Workers in the tourism sector. DOLE-DOT Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001


    Department of Social Welfare and Development

    DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT (DSWD)

    August 2021 – DILG-DSWD-DND Joint Memorandum Circular No. 3 s. 2021: Joint Implementing Guidelines for the Distribution of Financial Assistance to Cities and Municipality in National Capital Region That Are Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine

    DILG, DSWD and DND jointly issues the implementing guidelines for the distribution of financial assistance to cities and municipality in National Capital Region which are placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine from August 6 to 20, 2021. DILG-DSWD-DND Joint Memorandum Circular No. 3 s. 2021


    Department of the Interior and Local Government

    DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (DILG)

    16 September 2021 – Memorandum Sirkular Bilang 2021-103: Pagpapalawig at Pagpapa-Igting ng Contact Tracing sa Mga Barangay

    DILG encourages all concerned to develop and intensify the conduct of contact tracing in barangays. Memorandum Sirkular Bilang 2021-103

    25 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-095: VaxCertPH Digital Vaccination Certificate (DVC) Kick-Off and End-User Training

    In line with the implementation of the VaxCertPH, DILG informs all Local Government Units (LGUs) of the DICT’s series of Kick-Off and End-User Training on VaxCertPH on 23 to 25 August and 28 to 31 August 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-095

    10 August 2021 – DILG-DSWD-DND Joint Memorandum Circular No. 3 s. 2021: Joint Implementing Guidelines for the Distribution of Financial Assistance to Cities and Municipality in National Capital Region That Are Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine

    DILG, DSWD and DND issues the implementing guidelines for the distribution of financial assistance to cities and municipality of the National Capital Region (NCR) that are placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) from 06 to 20 August 2021. DILG-DSWD-DND Joint Memorandum Circular No. 3 s. 2021

    23 July 2021 – DILG-DICT Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-01: Implementation of the Line List System in Local Government Units Through the Use of the DICT Vaccine Administration System

    DILG and DICT implement the Line List System, which shall be the official and primary record of the vaccination events (1st dose, 2nf dose, deferral) of citizens and residents of the Philippines. DILG-DICT Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-01

    15 June 2021 – Advisory No. 21-11: On the Allowable On-Site Operational of Venue/Seating Capacity of Certain Business Establishments and Activities in NCR and Bulacan Vis-à-vis Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal

    DTI provides the allowable on-site operational or venue/seating capacity from 16 to 30 June 2021 for NCR, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite and Rizal, pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 121 series of 2021. Advisory No. 21-11

    31 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-058: Intensifying Regulation/Prohibition of Holding of Activities as Sources of Virus Superspreaders

    DILG directs all Punong Barangays to implement provided effective control measures. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-058

    31 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-057: Guidelines to Fast-Track COVID-19 Vaccination Rollout in Local Government Units

    DILG provides the guidelines to fast-track the vaccination process in the LGUs and for them to adopt strategies that will meet such objective, and reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccine confidence of the people. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-057

    18 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-055: Amendment to DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2021-052, Providing Technical Notes on the Indicators of the DILG Vaccine Monitoring System (VMS)

    DILG amends Item No. 4.2.4 of its Memorandum Circular No. 2021-052, which provides the technical notes on the indicators of DILG Vaccine Motoring System (VMS). Memorandum Circular No. 2021-055

    06 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-052: Technical Notes on the Indicators of the DILG Vaccine Monitoring System (VMS)

    DILG provides the technical notes on the indicators of the DILG Vaccine Monitoring System (VMS), to enable DILG Regional and Field Offices to have a better understanding of the data required by the DILG VMS under its LGU preparedness component. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-052

    05 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-050: Directives on the Roles of LCEs in the Implementation of Minimum Public Health Standards Especially on the Prohibition Against Public or Mass Gatherings

    DILG directs all Local Government Units (LGUs), regarding the implementation of the guidelines of the IATF on prohibiting/limiting public and mass gatherings. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-050

    08 February 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-015: Quarantine Protocols of Local Government Units for Returning Overseas Filipinos

    DILG strongly enjoins all provincial, city, municipal and barangay governments, DILG Regional Offices, BARMM Ministry of the Interior and Local Government and other concerned, to provide information on their quarantine protocols for Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs), pursuant to existing guidelines by the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF). Memorandum Circular No. 2021-015

    18 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-007: Interim Preparatory Guidelines in the Implementation of the National Vaccination Program

    DILG provides guidelines on the preparatory activities to be done by local government units (LGUs) for the implementation of the National Vaccination Program. The Program, as a national endeavor, shall utilize a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in order to harmonize efforts needed for the successful and effective implementation of the National Vaccination Program. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-007


    Department of Trade and Industry

    DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY (DTI)

    16 October 2021 – Advisory No. 21-20: On the Allowable On-Site Operational or Venue/Seating Capacity of Business Establishments, Persons, or Activities in the National Capital Region Under Alert Level 3

    DTI issues the Guidelines for the Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in Pilot Areas from 16 October until 31 October 2021, pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 143-A, series of 2021, placing the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 3. Advisory No. 21-20

    30 September 2021 – DOLE-DOH-DILG-DOT-DTI Advisory No. 21-01: Supplemental Guidelines Relative to the Implementing Guidelines of the Safety Seal Certification Program

    DOLE, DOH, DILG, DOT and DTI jointly issue the Supplemental Guidelines on the Safety Seal Certification Program, to encourage more businesses to apply for the Safety Seal program and strengthen health safety protocols in establishments and workplaces. DOLE-DOH-DILG-DOT-DTI Advisory No. 21-01

    30 September 2021 – DOLE-DOH-DILG-DOT-DTI Advisory No. 21-01: Supplemental Guidelines Relative to the Implementing Guidelines of the Safety Seal Certification Program

    DOLE, DOH, DILG, DOT and DTI jointly issue the Supplemental Guidelines on the Safety Seal Certification Program, to encourage more businesses to apply for the Safety Seal program and strengthen health safety protocols in establishments and workplaces. DOLE-DOH-DILG-DOT-DTI Advisory No. 21-01

    16 September 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 21-32: On-Site Operational Capacity of Business Establishments, Persons, and Activities in the National Capital Region Under the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response

    DTI issues the guidelines on the on-site operational capacity of business establishments, persons, and activities in the National Capital Region (NCR) under the implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response for the period of 16 to 30 September 2021, unless extended. Memorandum Circular No. 21-32

    20 August 2021 – Advisory No. 21-19: On the Allowable On-Site Operational or Venue/Seating Capacity of Business Establishments/Activities

    DTI issues its latest allowable on-site operational or venue/seating capacity of business establishments/activities, pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 134, series of 2021. Advisory No. 21-19

    09 August 2021 – Advisory No. 21-18: On the Suspension of the Reglementary Periods to Commence Appeals and File Pleadings on the Consumer Act and Trade and Industry Laws During ECQ

    DTI advises all concerned that the reglementary period for the commencement of appeals, filing of pleadings, and all other ancillary papers involving violations of the Consumer Act and other Trade and Industry Laws before the DTI shall be suspended for the duration of the ECQ. Advisory No. 21-18

    06 August 2021 – Advisory No. 21-16A: On the Allowable On-Site Operational or Venue/Seating Capacity of Business Establishments/Activities Under Various Community Quarantines

    DTI updates the allowable on-site operational or venue/seating capacity of business establishments/activities under various community quarantines for the period of 01 to 31 August 2021. Advisory No. 21-16A

    06 August 2021 – Advisory No. 21-16: On the Allowable On-Site Operational or Venue/Seating Capacity of Business Establishments/Activities Under Various Community Quarantines

    DTI issued its updated allowable on-site operational or venue/seating capacity of business establishments/activities under the various quarantines as of 06 August 2021, in line with IATF Resolution Nos. 130-A and 130-D. Advisory No. 21-16

    01 July 2021 – Advisory No. 21-14: On the Allowable On-Site Operational or Venue/Seating Capacity of Certain Business Establishments and Activities in NCR, Bulacan, and Rizal Vis-à-vis Laguna and Cavite

    DTI issues the Advisory on the allowable on-site operational or venue/seating capacity from 01 to 15 July 2021 for NCR, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna and Cavite. Advisory No. 21-14

    31 May 2021 – Advisory No. 21-09: Increase in On-Site Operational Capacity of Certain Business Establishments and Activities Under General Community Quarantine With Heightened Restrictions

    DTI issues the prescribed on-site operational or venue capacity of the business establishments and/or activities in the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal together with the highly urbanized cities of the National Capital Region and the municipality of Pateros (NCR Plus) under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) with heightened restrictions from 01 to 15 June 2021. DTI Advisory No. 21-09

    30 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 21-15: Additional Business Establishments, Persons or Activities Allowed to Operate in Areas Placed Under MECQ

    DTI provides the guidelines for business establishments, persons or activities allowed to operate, work in areas placed under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). Memorandum Circular No. 21-15

    28 March 2021 – Advisory No. 21-06: On the Implementation of Guidelines for Business Establishments and Activities Allowed to Operate under Enhanced Community Quarantine

    DTI issues the list of business establishments and activities allowed to operate in the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal together with the highly urbanized cities of the National Capital Region and the municipality of Pateros from 29 March 2021 to 04 April 2021, pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 106-B, series of 2021, and subject to compliance with the minimum public health and safety standards and pertinent sector-relevant protocols. Advisory No. 21-06

    23 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 21-11: Implementation of Temporary Measures and Enhanced Compliance Monitoring to Address the Rising Number of COVID-19 Cases

    DTI implements the temporary and enhanced measures in NCR, and contiguous provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, to address the rising number of COVID-19 cases. Memorandum Circular No. 21-11

    09 March 2021 – DTI-DOLE Advisory No. 21-01: On the Continued Vigilance Against New COVID-19 Variants Through Reinforcement of Existing Minimum Public Health and Safety Standards and Protocols

    DTI and DOLE remind employers/contractor/subcontractors and business establishments to reinforce their strict implementation of minimum public health and safety standards and protocols in the workplace, such as DOH Administrative Order No. 2020-0015 series of 2020 and applicable sector-relevant guidelines. DTI-DOLE Advisory No. 21-01

    28 February 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 21-08: Prescribing the Recategorization of Certain Business Activities from Category IV to Category III

    DTI prescribes the guidelines for the re-opening and expansion of business establishments or activities under Category IV to Category III. Memorandum Circular No. 21-08


    Food and Drug Administration

    FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA)

    17 November 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for SARS-CoV-2 rS Protein Nanoparticle Vaccine [Covovax]

    FDA approves the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) application for SARS-CoV-2 rS Protein Nanoparticle Vaccine [Covovax] (COVID-19 Vaccine Covovax). Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for SARS-CoV-2 rS Protein Nanoparticle Vaccine [Covovax]

    17 November 2021 – Amended Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Casirivimab + Imdevimab

    FDA revises the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) granted to the COVID-19 Drug Casirivimab + Imdevimab, in line with the request for amendment of the EUA for Casirivimab + Imdevimab dated 01 October 2021 to delete the brand name “Ronapreve” and extend shelf life of the drug product to twenty-four (24) months. Amended Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Casirivimab + Imdevimab

    14 October 2021 – Circular No. 221-0023: Extension of Validity of Selected Special Certification for COVID-19 Test Kits Under FDA Memorandum No. 2020-006 Entitled “Issuance of Special Certification for Imported Test Kits of COVID-19”

    FDA extends the validity of selected special certification for COVID-19 test kits under FDA Memorandum No. 2020-006, to provide guidance on the regulatory flexibility implemented by the FDA in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular No. 221-0023

    01 October 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2381: Public Health Warning Against the Illicit Online Selling of Medicines Used for Treatment of COVID-19

    FDA warns all healthcare professionals and the public on significant risks associated with the growing internet sales of medicines. FDA advises the consumers to purchase all their medicines only from legitimate FDA-licensed establishments and drug outlets. Advisory No. 2021-2381

    01 October 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Casirivimab + Imdevimab (Ronapreve)

    FDA issues the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Casirivimab + Imdevimab (Ronapreve) (“COVID-19 Drug Ronapreve”). Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Casirivimab + Imdevimab (Ronapreve)

    01 October 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-037: Coverage of COVID-19 Cases Admitted in Level 1 Hospitals

    PHILHEALTH allows Level 1 (L1) hospitals in municipalities without any Level 2 (L2) or Level 3 (L3) Hospitals as certified by the DOH – Center for Health Development to claim for moderate COVID-19 pneumonia regardless of the risk classification of their areas. Advisory No. 2021-037

    29 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2380: Public Health Warning Against the Purchase of COVID-19 Vaccines from Online Selling Platforms and Social Media Market Places

    FDA warns the public against buying of COVID-19 vaccine such as, AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna Vaccines from Online Selling Platforms and Social Media. The public is advised that this is a scam which uses online platforms and social media to attract buyers specially those who have preference on the brand of vaccines specifically Filipinos who work abroad (OFWs). Advisory No. 2021-2380

    27 September 2021 – Memorandum No. 2021-019: Operation of Health Establishments/Facilities in the Manufacture of Medical Gases Without a License to Operate During the COVID-19 Pandemic r

    FDA directs its Field Regulatory Operations Office (FROO) to defer all regulatory enforcement action against health establishments/facilities found to be engaging in the manufacture of medical gases without the requisite License to Operate (LTO), to address supply shortages brought about by the current COVID-19 pandemic. – Memorandum No. 2021-019

    22 September 2021 – Circular No. 2021-008-A: Amendment to FDA Circular No. 2021-008, Entitled, “Updated Guidelines for the Registration of Drug Products Under Emergency Use (DEU) for COVID-19”

    In line with the efforts in streamlining the application process and requirements for the registration of drug products for COVID-19, FDA amends Section IV. A. Documentary Requirements and IV. E.1. Post-approval Commitments of FDA Circular No. 2021-008. Circular No. 2021-008-A

    13 September 2021 – Circular No. 2021-018: Updated Guidelines on the Identification, Notification, Evaluation, Regulatory Enforcement Action, and Review and Monitoring of Donated Health Products Solely Intended to Address COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

    FDA issues the guidelines on the identification, notification, evaluation, regulatory enforcement action, and review and monitoring of donated health products solely intended to address COVID-19 public health emergency referred by the DOH. Circular No. 2021-018

    13 September 2021 – Circular No. 2020-037-A: Extension of the Effectivity of FDA Circular No. 2020-037 Entitled “Reissuance of the Guidelines on the Implementation of the Use of Electronic Means Of Prescription for Drugs for the Benefit of Individuals Vulnerable to COVID-19

    FDA extends until 31 December 2021, the effectivity of FDA Circular No. 2020-037, regarding the reissuance of the guidelines on the implementation of the use of electronic means of prescription for drugs for the benefit of individuals vulnerable to COVID-19. Circular No. 2020-037-A

    10 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2290: Reporting of Adverse Reactions to Drugs and Vaccines

    FDA reminds healthcare providers, consumers, and patients to report adverse reactions to drugs and vaccines to the FDA-National Pharmacovigilance Center especially during the time of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, in order to monitor the safety of the product and identify possible health problems. Advisory No. 2021-2290

    10 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2289: Claims of Nasal Spray Products Authorized by the Food and Drug Administration

    FDA informs the public on the claims of Nasal Spray products authorized in the Philippines. The Administration emphasizes that Nasal Spray products should not be used as substitutes to medicines and vaccines to prevent or treat SARS-CoV-2 Infection or COVID-19. The public is further encouraged to be vigilant in using products with claims against prevention or treatment of the COVID-19 disease. Advisory No. 2021-2289

    06 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2264: Public Health Warning on Falsified COVID-19 Vaccines “COVISHIELD” Confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO)

    FDA notifies the public on the Medical Product Alert provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), wherein COVID-19 vaccines identified as “COVISHIELD”, was detected in the African and South-East Asian regions in July and August 2021 and was recently confirmed as falsified by WHO. Resolution No. 137 s. 2021

    02 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2223: List of Drug Products Under Emergency Use (DEU)

    FDA issues the list of products which may be registered as Drug Products under Emergency Use (DEU) for COVID-19, as of 02 September 2021. Advisory No. 2021-2223

    12 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2094: List of COVID-19 Test Kits with FDA Special Certification and Performance Validation Conducted and/or Recommended by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM)

    FDA announces the list of COVID-19 test kits that have passed the performance validation conducted and/or recommended by the RITM and were issued with FDA Special Certification in accordance with FDA Memorandum No. 2021-009. Advisory No. 2021-2094

    24 August 2021 – Advisory Re: Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Central Office will be Temporarily Closed on August 27-30, 2021 for Total Disinfection

    FDA informs all concerned that its central office will be temporarily closed on 27 to 30 August 2021 for total disinfection to prevent further transmission of COVID-19 in view of the increasing positive cases documented in the said office. dvisory Re: Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Central Office will be Temporarily Closed on August 27-30

    20 August 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik Light COVID-19 Vaccine

    FDA approves the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for single dose of Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik Light COVID-19 vaccine. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik Light COVID-19 Vaccine

    07 June 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated Manufactured by Sinopharm / China National Pharmaceutical Group

    FDA issues the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated manufactured by Sinopharm / China National Pharmaceutical Group. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated Manufactured by Sinopharm / China National Pharmaceutical Group

    02 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-1896: Recall of COVID-19 Test Kits with Low Results of Performance Validation Conducted by the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM)

    FDA informs all concerned healthcare professionals and the general public on the recall of COVID-19 test kits distributed by the corresponding Market Authorization Holders (MAHs) which did not meet their declared product specificity and sensitivity after the low results of performance validation conducted by the RITM. Advisory No. 2021-1896

    23 July 2021 – Circular No. 2020-024-B: Supplemental Guidelines to FDA Circular No. 2020-024-A, Entitled, “Amendment to FDA Circular No. 2020-024, Entitled Updated Guidelines for Application of Authorizations with the Food and Drug Administration in Light of the Community Quarantine Declarations

    FDA provides further guidance on the regulatory flexibilities it implemented in light of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, specifically on the FDA-issued market authorizations. Circular No. 2020-024-B

    14 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-1239: Distribution, Purchase and Administration of FDA Certified COVID-19 Test Kits (RT-PCR, Antibody and Antigen Based)

    FDA reiterates to all licensed importer/distributors that all COVID-19 test kits should be strictly distributed to appropriate establishments or institutions. Advisory No. 2021-1239

    16 June 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-1270: Use of COVID-19 Antibody Test Kits for Assessment of Immunity After COVID-19 Vaccination

    FDA encourages the public to exercise vigilance in the use and claims of COVID-19 antibody test kits for assessment of immunity after their COVID-19 vaccination which are existing in the market, to avoid false information and undue misconception. Advisory No. 2021-1270

    01 June 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-1174: Public Health Warning Against the Fake Special Certification for Prime Syringe COVID-19 and the Unregistered Medical Device Product “PRIME SYRINGE COVID-19″

    FDA warns all concerned healthcare professionals and the general public against the fake Special certification for Prime Syringe COVID-19. Advisory No. 2021-1174

    26 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-1154: Voluntary Recall and Revocation of FDA Special Certification of Cellex qSARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM Cassette Rapid Test

    FDA warns all concerned healthcare professionals and establishments on the voluntary recall and revocation of FDA Special Certification of Cellex qSARS-CoV-2 imported and distributed by Gepp Lab Solutions, Inc. Advisory No. 2021-1154

    24 May 2021 – Circular No. 2021-011: Extension of Transitory Period for the Implementation of FDA Circular No. 2020-025, “Implementing Guidelines for Administrative Order No. 2019-0019″

    FDA announces the further extension of the transitory period to comply with the licensing and registration requirements for covered Household/Urban Hazardous Substances (HUHS) products and establishments under FDA Circular No. 2020-025 until 31 December 2021, in consideration of the public health and economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular No. 2021-011

    05 May 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine (Nucleotide Modified) (COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

    FDA provides the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine (Nucleotide Modified) (COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna), approved on 05 May 2021. – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine (Nucleotide Modified) (COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

    30 April 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0878: Reporting of Side Effects to Medicines

    FDA warns the public on significant risks associated with the use of medicines against COVID-19 including medicines bought from online platforms and from unauthorized sources. Advisory No. 2021-0878

    22 April 2021 – Circular No. 2020-0022-B: Amendment to Include Health Products from the COVAX Facility/World Health Organization to the List of Identified Donated Health Products Under the Scope of FDA Circular No. 2020-0022

    FDA further amends its Circular No. 2020-022, to include health products from the COVAX facility/World Health Organization in the list of health products for identification, notification, review and monitoring and other regulatory enforcement of the FDA covering foreign or locally donated health products solely intended to address the COVID-19public health emergency Circular No. 2020-0022-B

    20 April 2021 – Circular No. 2021-008: Updated Guidelines for the Registration of Drug Products Under Emergency Use (DEU) for COVID-19

    FDA provides the streamlined requirements and application process for the registration of drug products for COVID-19. Circular No. 2021-008

    19 April 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 Vaccine (Ad26.COV2-S [recombinant], Grand River Aseptic Manufacturing, Michigan, USA Site

    FDA provides a copy of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) issued for COVID-19 Vaccine (Ad26.COV2-S [recombinant].

    17 April 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0759: Clarification on the Approval and Use of Remdesivir

    FDA clarifies that Remdesivir has no Certificate of Product Registration in the Philippines. Advisory No. 2021-0759

    15 April 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0684: Guidance on the Process for the Issuance of Special Certification for COVID-19 Test Kits Based on FDA Memorandum No. 2020-006 and FDA Memorandum No. 2021-009

    FDA informs all medical device manufacturers, importers, traders, distributors and all concerned on the process for the issuance of Special Certification for CVOID-19 Test Kits pursuant to the provisions of FDA Memorandum No. 2020-006 and FDA Memorandum No. 2021-009. Advisory No. 2021-0684

    08 April 2021 – FDA Announcement on the Release of 410 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA has released a total of 410 COVID-19 test kits (133 – PCR based, 115 – Rapid Antibody, 73 – Immunoassay and 89 – Others). FDA Announcement 08 April 2021

    30 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0681: Public Health Warning on Falsified COVID-19 Vaccine BNT162b2 Confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO)

    FDA informs the public on the Medical Product Alert provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), wherein a COVID-19 vaccine identified as “BNT162b2″, was detected in Mexico last February 2021 and was recently confirmed as falsified to the WHO by the manufacturer. Advisory No. 2021-0681

    24 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0678: Caution on the Purchase and Use of Certain COVID-19 Test Kits Following the Performance Validation Conducted by the RITM

    FDA provides the list of COVID-19 test kits distributed by the corresponding Market Authorization Holders (MAH), which did not meet their declared product specificity and sensitivity after the performance validation conducted by the National Reference Laboratory -RITM on COVID-10 Test Kits. Advisory No. 2021-0678

    30 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0664: Public Health Warning on Fake COVID-19 Vaccines

    FDA informs the public that globally, no approved COVID-19 vaccines are currently available for sale online. FDA further enjoins the public to receive their COVID-19 vaccination shots in DOH-authorized Vaccination Sites. Advisory No. 2021-0664

    29 March 2021 – Press Statement Re: Clarification on the Purchase and Use of Ivermectin

    FDA clarifies that there is no ban on the purchase and use of the drug product Ivermectin as long as product is registered with the FDA. The Administration also reminds the public of its Advisory Nos. 2021-526 and 2021-625-A, warning the public against the purchase of the unregistered Ivermectin and the use of the product for treatment of COVID-19. FDA Press Statement 29 March 2021

    26 March 2021 – Announcement on the Release of a Total of 408 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA announces the release of a total of 408 COVID-19 test kits (133 – PCR based, 115 – Rapid Antibody, 73 – Immunoassay and 87 – Others). FDA Announcement 26 March 2021

    23 March 2021 – Memorandum No. 2021-009: Minimum Performance Requirements for COVID-19 Test Kits Used for SARS-CoV-2 Infection

    FDA provides the minimum performance requirement for COVID-19 test kits. The Memorandum also provides specific guidelines on the re-evaluation of product performance of COVID-19 test kits issued with Special Certification by FDA. Memorandum No. 2021-009

    19 March 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik V Gam-COVID-Vac COVID-19 Vaccine

    FDA provides a copy of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) issued for Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik V Gam-COVID-Vac COVID-19 Vaccine (“Gamaleya Sputnik V Vaccine”). Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology Sputnik V Gam-COVID-Vac COVID-19 Vaccine

    16 March 2021 – Announcement on the Release of a Total of 399 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA announces the release of a total of 399 COVID-19 test kits (132 – PCR based, 115 – Rapid Antibody, 70 – Immunoassay and 82 – Others). FDA Announcement on the Release of a Total of 399 COVID-19 Test Kits

    15 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0526: Public Health Warning on the Purchase and Use of Ivermectin Veterinary Products for COVID-19

    FDA advises the public against the purchase and use of Ivermectin veterinary products foe COVID-19. Advisory No. 2021-0526

    11 March 2021 – Press Statement Re: Clarification on Post Market Performance Testing of COVID-19 Rapid Test Kits

    FDA informs the public that it has issued letters to concerned companies directing the immediate cessation of selling activities of their COVID-19 Rapid Test Kits which significantly performed below the declared sensitivity and specificity based on the findings of RITM. FDA Press Statement dated 11 March 2021

    10 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2020-1181-A: Updated List of FDA Notified Medical Face Masks

    FDA provides the updated list of registered face masks for medical use as of March 08, 2021. FDA also enjoins the public to be vigilant in the purchase and use of the face masks, in light of the proliferation of these products in the market to curb the spread of COVID-19. FDA Advisory No. 2020-1181-A

    08 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0520: Delisted Companies with Issued FDA-Special Certification for COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA informs all concerned stakeholders and the public of the companies with issued Special Certification for COVID-19 Test Kits which have voluntarily surrendered their authorization to market their products. FDA Advisory No. 2021-0520

    05 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0450: Caution on the Purchase and Use of Certain COVID-19 Test Kits Following the Performance Validation Conducted by the RITM

    FDA issues list of COVID-19 test kits distributed by the corresponding Market Authorization Holders (MAH) which did not meet their declared product specificity and sensitivity after the performance validation conducted by the National Reference Laboratory-RITM on COVID-19 Test Kits. Advisory No. 2021-0450

    04 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0434: Prohibition of Online Selling of FDA Certified COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA reminds all concerned stakeholders and the general public that online selling of all types of FDA certified COVID-19 test kits (RT-PCR, antibody, antigen based) is strictly prohibited. Advisory No. 2021-0434

    22 February 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated [CoronaVac], Sinovac Life Sciences Co., Ltd

    FDA provides a copy of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) issued for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated [CoronaVac]. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated [CoronaVac], Sinovac Life Sciences Co., Ltd

    19 February 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0284: Clarification on RT-PCR Testing Using Saliva as Sample for COVID-19 by the Philippine Red Cross

    FDA informs all healthcare professionals and the general public that the test kit used by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) in their RT-PCR testing using saliva as a sample is not the same as the saliva antigen test kit approved by the FDA. Advisory No. 2021-0284

    19 February 2021 – FDA Announcement on the Release of 380 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA has released a total of 380 COVID-19 test kits (129 – PCR based, 108 – Rapid Antibody, 68 – Immunoassay and 75 – Others). FDA Announcement on the Release of 380 COVID-19 Test Kits </p

    18 February 2021 – Circular No. 2020-024-A: Amendment to FDA Circular No. 2020-024, Entitled, “Updated Guidelines for the Application of Authorizations with the Food and Drug Administration in Light of the Community Quarantine Declarations”

    FDA applies the extension of the regulatory flexibilities introduced in FDA Circular (FC) No. 2020-024 for existing authorizations, in view of the continuing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Circular No. 2020-024-A

    18 February 2021 – Circular No. 2021-006: Interim Guidelines on the Issuance of Certificate of Accreditation and Inspection of Bioequivalence (BE) Testing Centers

    In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, FDA issues the interim guidelines on the issuance of a Certificate of Accreditation and inspection of BE testing centers to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of generic drug products. Circular No. 2021-006

    11 February 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-0245: Caution on the Online Ordering and Purchase of Medicines, Vaccines, Testing Kits and Other Medical Supplies

    FDA advises and warns the general public to take special care when going online searching for medicines, vaccines, testing kits and other medical supplies to avoid being victims of scams, following the Interpol Media Release dated 02 December 2020 entitled, “INTERPOL warns of organized crime threat to COVID-19 vaccines”. FDA Advisory No. 2021-0245

    09 February 2021 – DOH-NTF-FDA Advisory Dated February 09, 2021: On Unauthorized Sale of Unregistered COVID-19 Vaccines

    DOH, NTF and FDA, emphasize that the marketing and sale of any COVID-19 vaccine in the country is currently prohibited and punishable by law, following reports of individuals and institutions claiming to sell COVID-19 vaccines which have been granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). DOH-NTF-FDA Advisory Dated February 09, 2021

    09 February 2021 – Circular No. 2021-004: Revised Interim Guidelines for the Issuance of License to Operate (LTO) and Certificate of Product Notification (CPN) for Manufacturers, Distributors and Traders of Rubbing Alcohol Products Under the Center for Cosmetics and Household/Urban Hazardous Substances Regulation and Research

    FDA issues the interim guidelines for the issuance of License to Operate (LTO) and Certificate of Product Notification (CPN) for manufacturers, distributors and traders of all ethanol and isopropanol products regardless of percent concentrations intended to be used as sanitizing, antibacterial and antiseptic agents, in the exigency of service and in response to the current pandemic state of the country due to COVID-19.

    05 February 2021 – Clarification on the Issuance of an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)

    FDA provides the National Task Force Against COVID-19’s (NTF) Memorandum Circular No. 2 series of 2021, clarifying the issuance of Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Clarification on the Issuance of an Emergency Use Authorization

    04 February 2021 – List of FDA Issued Emergency Use Authorization

    FDA provides a webpage for the list of its issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The page contains information about the Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca vaccines as of February 04, 2021. List of FDA Issued Emergency Use Authorization

    28 January 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 Vaccine (ChAdOx1-S[recombinant]) (COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)

    FDA provides a copy of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) issued to AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 Vaccine

    14 January 2021 – Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID19 Vaccine Suspension for IM Injection

    FDA provides a copy of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) issued to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID19 Vaccine Suspension for IM Injection

    29 January 2021 – FDA Announcement on the Release of 366 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA has released a total of 366 COVID-19 test kits (126 – PCR based, 105 – Rapid Antibody, 68 – Immunoassay and 67 – Others). FDA Announcement on the Release of 366 COVID-19 Test Kits

    21 January 2021 – FDA Announcement on the Release of 358 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA has released a total of 358 COVID-19 test kits (123 – PCR based, 106 – Rapid Antibody, 68 – Immunoassay and 61 – Others). FDA Announcement 21 January 2021

    20 January 2021 – Press Statement Re: Donated COVID-19 Vaccines Require FDA Authorization

    FDA clarifies that donated COVID-19 vaccines require FDA author9ization in the form of Emergency Use Authorization EUA prior to use. FDA Press Statement dated 20 January 2021

    14 January 2021 – Press Statement Re: FDA Philippines Grants Emergency Use Authorization to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

    FDA issues its press statement granting the first Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (BNT162b2) Suspension for IM Injection (Puurs, Belgium Site). FDA Press Statement dated 14 January 2021

    07 January 2021 – FDA Announcement on the Release of a total of 346 COVID-19 Test Kits

    FDA announces the release of a total of 346 COVID-19 test kits: (121 – PCR based, 106 – Rapid Antibody, 68 – Immunoassay and 51 – Others). FDA Announcement dated 07 January 2021


    Government Procurement Policy Board

    GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT POLICY BOARD (GPPB)

    17 May 2021 – Resolution No. 08-2021: Approving the Requests for Extension of Various Procuring Entities and the Extension of Deadline for the Submission of Procurement Reports

    GPPB grants the requests for extension for the corresponding procurement reports of various Procuring Entities (PEs) until 30 June 2021, due to agency imposed lockdown as a result of confirmed COVID-19 cases and other circumstances brought about by COVID-19 pandemic. Resolution No. 08-2021

    25 March 2021 – Circular No. 02-2021: Guidelines for the Procurement of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccines and Its Ancillary Supplies and Services or Other Goods and Services Authorized Under Republic Act No. 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021

    GPPB issues the Guidelines for Emergency Procurement Under Republic Act (RA) No. 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021, to expedite the procurement of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, and ancillary supplies and services or other goods and services necessary for the storage, transport, deployment, and administration of COVID-19 vaccines under RA No. 11525. Circular No. 02-2021

    25 March 2021 – Resolution No. 06-2021: Approving the Issuance of A Circular on the Guidelines for Emergency Procurement Under Republic Act No. 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021

    GPPB approves the issuance of a Circular providing the Guidelines for the Emergency Procurement under Republic Act (RA) No. 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021. Resolution No. 06-2021

    03 February 2021 – Resolution No. 02-2021: Approving the Issuance of A Resolution Seeking Clarifications on the Intended Role of the Procurement Service-Department of Budget and Management in the Implementation of the Philippine National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 Vaccines in Relation to the Request of the Department of Health to Include COVID-19 Vaccines in the List of Common Use Supplies and Equipment and Incorporate Such Clarifications to the Letter to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and the COVID-19 Vaccine Cluster

    GPPB approves the issuance of a Resolution to clarify the role of the Procurement Service-Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) in the implementation of the Philippines National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 Vaccines, relating to the request of DOH to include the COVID-19 vaccines in the list of Common Use Supplies and Equipment. Resolution No. 02-2021

    11 January 2021 – Resolution No. 01-2021: Approving the Issuance of A Letter to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and to the COVID-19 Vaccine Cluster Asking Clarifications on the Procurement of COVID-19 Vaccines

    GPPB approves the issuance of a letter to be signed by the GPPB Chairperson and addressed to the IATF and the COVID-19 Vaccine Cluster, inquiring on the rules and policies adopted in the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines. Resolution No. 01-2021


    Insurance Commission

    INSURANCE COMMISSION (IC)

    02 August 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-50: Operations of Health Maintenance Organizations and Health Insurance Providers Under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ)

    IC issued the guidelines for the operations of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Health Insurance Providers under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Circular Letter No. 2021-50

    28 May 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-38: Guidelines on the Re-Imposition of Penalties Which Were Suspended Under CL No. 2020-93 as Directed Under Bayanihan 2

    IC issues the guidelines on the re-imposition of penalties which were suspended under its Circular Letter No. 2020-93. Circular Letter No. 2021-38

    11 May 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-36: Extension of Period for Submission of the Annual Corporate Governance Report (ACGR)

    In view of the ECQ period and subsequent quarantine measures, IC extends the deadline for the submission of the Annual Corporate Governance Report for the year 2020 to 30 July 2021, without incurring any penalties for late compliance. Circular Letter No. 2021-36

    29 March 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-22: Operations of Health Maintenance Organizations and Health Insurance Providers Under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ)

    IC promulgates the guidelines on the operations of Health Maintenance Organizations and Health Insurance Providers during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). Circular Letter No. 2021-22

    30 March 2021 – Administrative Advisory No. 2021-AA-016: Services of the IC Administrative Division

    IC informs of the service adjustments of its Administrative Division. Administrative Advisory No. 2021-AA-016

    28 March 2021 – Public Advisory No. 2021-03: Off-Site Insurance Agents Qualifying Examinations

    IC suspends its Special Off-Site Insurance Agent’s Qualifying Examinations, beginning 29 March until 05 April 2021, due to the recent surge in the number of COVID-19 cases. IC Public Advisory No. 2021-03

    26 March 2021 – Administrative Advisory No. 2021-AA-015: Services of the Administrative Division

    IC issues the temporary adjustments in the services of its Administrative Division, as part of its strict agency measures to ensure the health and safety of its personnel and the public. Administrative Advisory No. 2021-AA-015

    25 March 2021 – Public Advisory Re: IC Head Office Closure – 26 March 2021

    IC informs all concerned of the temporary closure of its Head Office on 26 March 2021, to facilitate disinfection of the office premises. IC Public Advisory 25 March 2021

    15 March 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-16: Online Submission of Documents and Schedules to Support Ownership of Assets

    IC promulgates the online submission of documents and schedules to support ownership of assets. Circular Letter No. 2021-16

    03 March 2021 – Circular Letter No. 2021-014: Online Submission of Pre-Need Monthly Reports

    IC amends its Circular Letter No. 2014-28 dated June 18, 2014, regarding the submission of some reports through email not later than the 25th day of the following month, to minimize fac-to-face interactions, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular Letter No. 2021-014

    22 February 2021 – Advisory Re: Offices/Divisions in the Insurance Commission (IC) Head Office – Manila to Undergo 14-Day Mandatory Self-Quarantine from 22 February to 07 March 2021

    IC announces that its Head Office – Manila will undergo a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine beginning February 22 to March 07, 2021, in compliance with the health protocols relative to COVID-19. IC Advisory dated 22 February 2021


    Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines

    INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICE (IPOPHL)

    23 September 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-022: Processing and Issuance of a Certification of No Pending Case in the Bureau of Legal Affairs

    IPOPHL’s Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA) adopts and implements the guidelines in the filing of request for the issuance and release of a “Certification of No Pending Case” in the Bureau, Memorandum Circular No. 2021-022

    23 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-020: Advisory on IPOPHL Services During the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine

    IPOPHL advises the public that deadlines for filings and payments falling due during the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) period shall not be extended. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-020

    06 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019: Addendum to IPOPHL Memorandum Circular No. 2021-018 Re Advisory on IPOPHL Services Due to the Enhanced Community Quarantine from 6 August 2021 to 20 August 2021

    IPOPHL allows online/virtual hearings, mediation and meetings scheduled during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) to proceed. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019

    04 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-018: Advisory on IPOPHL Services Due to the Enhanced Community Quarantine from 6 August 2021 to 20 August 2021

    IPOPHL issues its guidelines to be implemented during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) from 6 to 20 August 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-018

    11 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-011: Extension of Deadlines for Filings and Payments

    IPOPHL advises the public of its extension of deadlines for filings and payments. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-011

    11 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-010: Alternative Work Arrangement During the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine

    IPOPHL applies the guidelines under its Memorandum Circular No. 2021-004 throughout the duration of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) or until 30 April 2021, or until such time as the same is lifted by the national government. – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-010

    04 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-008: Extension of Deadlines for Filing and Payments

    IPOPHL advices the transacting public of the extension of filing and payments deadlines. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-008

    04 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-007: Alternative Work Arrangement in Light of the Extension of the Enhanced Community Quarantine

    IPOPHL informs of extension of its Memorandum Circular No. 2021-004 until 11 April 2021 or until such time as the ECQ is lifted by the national government. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-007

    28 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-005: Extension of Deadlines in Light of the Declaration of An Enhanced Community Quarantine

    IPOPHL issues the guidelines for its filing and payment extension in light of the declaration of ECQ.

    28 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-004: Alternative Work Arrangement in Light of the Declaration of An Enhanced Community Quarantine

    IPOPHL issues the guidelines to on work arrangements to be implemented on all working days which fall during the period of 29 March to 4 April 2021, in support of the national government’s objective of implementing proactive measures and restrictions to slow down the surge in COVID-19 cases. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-004

    11 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001: Suspension of Mailbox Services at IPOPHL Main Office

    IPOPHL advises the public of the suspension of its mailbox services at its Main Office located at Intellectual Property Center, #28 Upper McKinley Road, Taguig City, effective immediately. This is in line with IPOPHL’s measures to minimize risk of exposure of its stakeholders, employees, and transacting public to COVID-19. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001


    Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases

    INTER-AGENCY TASK FORCE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES (IATF)

    18 November 2021 – Resolution No. 149-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the interim testing and quarantine protocols to be observed for international arriving passengers in all ports of entry in the Philippines beginning 22 November 2021. Resolution No. 149-A s. 2021

    18 November 2021 – Resolution No. 149 s. 2021

    IATF approves the designation of Karlo Alexi B. Nograles as the spokesperson of IATF. The task force also approves the recommendations of its Technical Working Group. Resolution 149 s. 2021

    18 November 2021 – Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Level System for COVID-19 Response as of November 18, 2021

    IATF issues the guidelines on the nationwide implementation of Alert Level System for COVID-19 Response as of 18 November 2021, to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection. Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Level System for COVID-19 Response as of November 18, 2021

    18 October 2021 – Resolution No. 144-D s. 2021

    IATF approves the expansion of pilot areas of implementation of the Alert Levels System starting 20 October 2021. Resolution No. 144-D s. 2021

    15 October 2021 – Resolution No. 144-C s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Screening and Validation Committee to place under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) effective 18 October 2021 until 31 October 2021 the provinces of Bulacan, Apayao, and Capiz. Resolution No. 144-C s. 2021

    30 September 2021 – Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region as of September 30, 2021

    IATF issues the guidelines on the pilot implementation of alert levels system for COVID-19 response in the National Capital Region (NCR) as of 30 September 2021, to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection which shall be applied in the NCR beginning 16 September 2021. Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141-B s. 2021

    IATF issues the list of countries/jurisdictions/territories which have met the prescribed criteria, and upon favorable recommendation of the DOH and DFA to be classified as “Green” relative to IATF Resolution No. 128-A (s.2021), and “Yellow” and “Red” relative to IATF Resolution No. 136 (s.2021). Resolution No. 141-B s. 2021

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141-A s. 2021

    Upon the recommendation of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, IATF extends the designation of the National Capital Region (NCR) as the Pilot Area for the Pilot implementation of the Alert Levels System until 15 October 2021, with weekly evaluation pending new metrics. Resolution No. 141-A s. 2021

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141 s. 2021

    Upon the directives of the President, the National COVID-19 Immunization Program shall be opened to the general public nationwide upon the determination of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 and its Vaccine Cluster. Resolution No. 141 s. 2021

    13 October 2021 – Resolution No. 143-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of the Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, placing the National Capital Region (NCR) shall be under Alert Level 3 beginning 16 to 31 October 2021. Resolution No. 143-A s. 2021

    13 October 2021 – Resolution No. 143 s. 2021

    IATF approves the revised rules for “Green Lanes” which will apply to international arriving passengers to all ports of entry in the Philippines effective 14 October 2021. Resolution No. 143 s. 2021

    13 October 2021 – Guidelines on the Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in Pilot Areas as of October 13, 2021

    IATF issues the guidelines on the implementation of alert levels system for COVID-19 response in pilot areas as of 13 October 2021, to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection. Guidelines on the Implementation of Alert Levels System

    09 October 2021 – Resolution No. 142-A s. 2021

    IATF retroactively approves to apply its Resolution No. 142 (s. 2021), for the purpose of testing and quarantine protocols to be applied to international passengers coming from “Green” and “Yellow” List countries/territories//jurisdictions in all ports of entry who may have arrived in the Philippines on or before 08 October 2021. Resolution No. 142-A s. 2021

    07 October 2021 – Resolution No. 142 s. 2021

    IATF approves the protocols for close contacts of probable, suspect, and confirmed COVID-19 cases. Resolution No. 142 s. 2021

    07 October 2021 – Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region as of October 7, 2021

    IATF issues the guidelines on the pilot implementation of alert levels system for COVID-19 response in the National Capital Region (NCR) as of 07 October 2021, to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection. Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System

    30 September 2021 – Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region as of September 30, 2021

    IATF issues the guidelines on the pilot implementation of alert levels system for COVID-19 response in the National Capital Region (NCR) as of 30 September 2021, to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection which shall be applied in the NCR beginning 16 September 2021. Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141-B s. 2021

    IATF issues the list of countries/jurisdictions/territories which have met the prescribed criteria, and upon favorable recommendation of the DOH and DFA to be classified as “Green” relative to IATF Resolution No. 128-A (s.2021), and “Yellow” and “Red” relative to IATF Resolution No. 136 (s.2021). Resolution No. 141-B s. 2021

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141-A s. 2021

    Upon the recommendation of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, IATF extends the designation of the National Capital Region (NCR) as the Pilot Area for the Pilot implementation of the Alert Levels System until 15 October 2021, with weekly evaluation pending new metrics. Resolution No. 141-A s. 2021

    30 September 2021 – Resolution No. 141 s. 2021

    Upon the directives of the President, the National COVID-19 Immunization Program shall be opened to the general public nationwide upon the determination of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 and its Vaccine Cluster. – Resolution No. 141 s. 2021

    16 September 2021 – Resolution No. 139 s. 2021

    IATF updates its list of countries/jurisdictions/territories being considered as “Green” relative to IATF Resolution No. 128-A (s. 2021), and “Yellow” and “Red” relative to IATF Resolution No. 136 (s. 2021). Resolution No. 139 s. 2021

    13 September 2021 – Guidelines in the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital region

    IATF issues the Guidelines in the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region (NCR), to enjoin and proactively advocate the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) strategy against COVID-19 to curb the further spread of infection which shall be applied in the NCR beginning 16 September 2021. Guidelines in the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System

    09 September 2021 – Resolution No. 138 s. 2021

    IATF approves the Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region (NCR). Resolution No. 138 s. 2021

    07 September 2021 – Resolution No. 137 s. 2021

    IATF maintains Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) risk level classification until 15 September 2021 in the National Capital Region (NCR). Advisory No. 2021-2264

    06 September 2021 – Resolution No. 136-G s. 2021

    IATF escalates the risk level classifications of Ilocos Norte to Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) beginning 07 September 2021 until 30 September 2021. Resolution No. 136-G s. 2021

    03 September 2021 – Resolution No. 136-F s. 2021

    IATF places the National Capital Region (NCR) under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) beginning 08 September until 30 September 2021. Resolution No. 136-F s. 2021

    03 September 2021 – Resolution No. 136-B s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics and the Technical Advisory Group, on the list of countries/jurisdictions/territories which have met the prescribed incidence rate and testing rate for being considered as “Green” relative to IATF Resolution No. 128-A (s.2021). Resolution No. 136-B s. 2021

    03 September 2021 – Resolution No. 136 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, to adopt the “Yellow” and “Red” classifications, in addition to the “Green List” for countries/territories/jurisdictions based on their respective incidence rates and case counts as primary criteria, and testing data as secondary criteria. The task force further lifts the travel restrictions currently in place in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia starting 06 September 2021. Resolution No. 136 s. 2021

    30 August 2021 – Resolution No. 135-C s. 2021

    In view of the need to provide critical services to the capital market, SEC resumes the conduct of its certification examinations as scheduled on 08 September 2021, except when the IATF elevates the risk classification of the National Capital Region (NCR) to Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Resolution No. 135-C s. 2021

    26 August 2021 – Resolution No. 135-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics on the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) effective 01 to 07 September 2021. Resolution No. 135-A s. 2021

    26 August 2021 – Resolution No. 135

    IATF approves the request of the Philippine Racing Commission for the operation of their Off-Track Betting stations in the National Capital Region (NCR) for the duration of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). The task force likewise approves the recommendation of its Technical Working Group, the use of the OneHealthPass of the Bureau of Quarantine and the Department of Transportation One Stop Shop to promote the convenient and seamless movement of international travelers from departure from country of origin to arrival at the local government unit of destination beginning 07 September and for the duration of the state of national public health emergency. Resolution No. 135

    12 August 2021 – Resolution No. 133-B s. 2021

    IATF updates the list of countries/jurisdictions/territories which have met the prescribed incidence rate and considered as “Green” countries/jurisdictions/territories for the purpose of IATF Resolution No. 128-A (s.2021). Resolution No. 133-B s. 2021

    12 August 2021 – Resolution No. 133-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Screening and Validation Committee, on the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly-urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) effective 16 August 2021. Resolution No. 133-A s. 2021

    12 August 2021 – Resolution No. 133 s. 2021

    IATF extends until 31 August 2021 the travel restrictions currently in place in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, as per recommendations of the DOH and its Technical Advisory Group. Resolution No. 133 s. 2021

    10 August 2021 – Resolution No. 132 s. 2021

    IATF temporarily suspends the shortened seven (7)-day quarantine period for fully vaccinated individuals who are close contacts of probable and confirmed COVID-19 cases, in light of the more transmissible COVID-19 variants. Without prejudice to its further amendments as may be deemed so required, the testing and quarantine protocols for all close contacts of probable and confirmed COVID-19 cases, regardless of vaccination status, shall comply with the Department of Health (DOH) Department Memorandum No. 2020-0512 or the Revised Interim Omnibus Guidelines on the Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration Strategies for COVID-19. Resolution No. 132 s. 2021

    07 August 2021 – Resolution No. 131-E s. 2021

    IATF places the province of Bataan under Enhanced Community Quarantine beginning 08 August 2021 until 22 August 2021. Resolution No. 131-E s. 2021

    05 August 2021 – Resolution No. 131 s. 2021

    IATF approves Crisis Action Plan Against COVID-19 Delta Variant, together with the proposed restructuring of the National Task Force Against COVID-19. Resolution No. 131 s. 2021

    05 August 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of August 05, 2021

    IATF issues the amended Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine as of 05 August 2021, to harmonize and codify existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies. Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of August 05, 2021

    01 August 2021 – Resolution No. 130-D s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Screening and Validation Committee on the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly-urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs), effective 01 August 2021. Resolution No. 130-D s. 2021

    29 July 2021 – Resolution No. 130-B s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Technical Advisory Group and DOH on the list of countries/jurisdictions/territories considered as “Green” countries/jurisdictions/territories. There are fifty-one (51) countries/jurisdictions/territories included in the list. Resolution No. 130-B s. 2021

    29 July 2021 – Resolution No. 130-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Screening and Validation Committee, the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) effective 01 August 2021. Resolution No. 130-A s. 2021

    29 July 2021 – Resolution No. 130 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, the extension of travel restrictions currently imposed on India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand until 15 August 2021. Resolution No. 130 s. 2021

    22 July 2021 – Resolution No. 128-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the revised rules for “Green Lanes” that will apply to fully vaccinated international arriving passengers to the Philippines beginning 26 July 2021. Resolution No. 128-A s. 2021

    22 July 2021 – Resolution No. 128 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, which places the National Capital Region (NCR) under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) beginning 23 July 2021 until 31 July 2021. Resolution No. 128 s. 2021

    28 June 2021 – Resolution No. 123-C s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendation of its Technical Working Group (TWG) on the implementation of phased “Green Lanes” for fully vaccinated individuals. Resolution No. 123-C s. 2021

    28 June 2021 – Resolution No. 123 s. 2021

    IATF approves the extension of the travel restrictions currently imposed upon India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman until 15 July 2021. Resolution No. 123 s. 2021

    17 June 2021 – Resolution No. 122 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG). The Resolution was approved during the task force 122nd meeting held on 17 June 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 122 s. 2021

    15 June 2021 – Resolution No. 121 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics on the Risk-level classifications of Provinces, Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs), and Independent Component Cities (ICCs) effective 16 June 2021. Resolution No. 121 s. 2021

    10 June 2021 – Resolution No. 120 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG). The Resolution was approved during the 120th inter-agency task force meeting held on 10 June 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 120 s. 2021

    03 June 2021 – Resolution No. 119 s. 2021

    IATF approves the reclassification of provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) beginning 05 June 2021. The task also approves the various recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG). Resolution No. 119 s. 2021

    31 May 2021 – Resolution No. 118-A

    IATF endorses to the Office of the President, for approval the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly-urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) effective 01 June 2021. Resolution No. 118-A

    31 May 2021 – Resolution No. 118

    IATF reminds Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) of their functions and responsibilities in supervising their respective Region’s Inter-Agency Task Force and Regional Task Forces. Resolution No. 118

    27 May 2021 – Resolution No. 117 s. 2021

    The IATF approves the recommendations from the National Task Force Against COVID-19, sub-technical working group on Information and Communications Technology and its technical working group. The task force also allows the resumption of off-track betting stations of the Philippine Racing Commission. Resolution No. 117 s. 2021

    22 May 2021 – Resolution No. 116-C s. 2021

    IATF placed Iloilo City under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) from 23 May 2021 until 31 May 2021. The task force further retained the risk-level classification of MECQ until 31 May 2021 in Apayao, Benguet and Cagayan. Resolution No. 116-C s. 2021

    20 May 2021 – Resolution No. 116 s. 2021

    IATF approves amendments to the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines and the recommendations of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). The Resolution was approved during the 116th inter-agency task force meeting held on 20 May 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 116 s. 2021

    20 May 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of May 20, 2021

    IATF amends Sections 1 to 11 of its Omnibus Guidelines on the of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, to harmonize and codify with existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine, which shall be applied to all regions, provinces, cities, municipalities and barangays placed under community quarantine. Omnibus Guidelines on the of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of May 20, 2021

    17 May 2021 – Resolution No. 115-B s. 2021

    IATF with the concurrence of the iNITAG, includes all governors and city and municipal mayors or all local chief executives under the Priority Group A1.5 of the priority population groups for COVID-19 vaccines, regardless of the risk classification of their respective LGUs. Resolution No. 115-B s. 2021

    13 May 2021 – Resolution No. 115-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics, during its 115th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting, held on May 13, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 115-A s. 2021

    13 May 2021 – Resolution No. 115 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Technical Working Group during its 115th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting, held on May 13, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 115 s. 2021

    09 May 2021 – Resolution No. 114-C s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendation of its Screening and Validation Committee to place Cagayan, Apayao and Benguet under MECQ from May 10, 2021 to May 23, 2021. Resolution No. 114-C s. 2021

    06 May 2021 – Resolution No. 114-A s. 2021

    IATF issues the amended omnibus guidelines to harmonize and codify existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine, which shall be applied to all regions, provinces, cities, municipalities and barangays placed under community quarantine. Resolution No. 114-A s. 2021

    06 May 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of May 06, 2021

    IATF provides the risk-level classifications of Provinces, Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs), and Independent Component Cities (ICCs), without prejudice to their reclassification as may be warranted and the declaration of localized Enhanced Community Quarantine in critical areas for May 14 to 31, 2021. Omnibus Guidelines on the of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments

    05 May 2021 – Resolution No. 114 s. 2021

    IATF approves protocols to be observed for all inbound travellers to the Philippines, regardless of their vaccination status, in all ports of entry. Resolution No. 114 s. 2021

    29 April 2021 – Resolution No. 113-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) effective 01 May 2021. The task force also approves extending the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Abra, Ifugao, City of Santiago and Quirino until 14 May 2021. Resolution No. 113-A s. 2021

    29 April 2021 – Resolution No. 113 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of Technical Working Group (TWG) during its 113th inter-agency task force meeting held on 29 April 2021 via video conference. 29 April 2021 – Resolution No. 113 s. 2021

    22 April 2021 – Resolution No. 111 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its sub-Technical Working Group for Data Analytics and the Office of the Cabinet Secretariat and government agencies during its 111th inter-agency task force meeting held on 22 April 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 111 s. 2021

    15 April 2021 – Resolution No. 110-A s. 2021

    IATF approves the extension of the risk-level classification of Quirino Province as Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine, without prejudice to their reclassification as may be warranted and the declaration of localized Enhanced Community Quarantine in critical areas, until April 30, 2021. Resolution No. 110-A s. 2021

    15 April 2021 – Resolution No. 110 s. 2021

    IATF approves with finality the Priority Group A4 of the National COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment Plan. The task force also approves the recommendations by its Technical Working Group. Resolution No. 110 s. 2021

    15 April 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of April 15, 2021

    IATF issues its amended Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines as of April 15, 2021, to harmonize and codify existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies.

    10 April 2021 – Resolution No. 109-A s. 2021

    IATF recommends for approval of the President the community quarantine levels for the different areas of the country. The Resolution was approved during the task force’s 109th inter-agency meeting held on April 10, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 109-A s. 2021

    10 April 2021 – Resolution No. 109 s. 2021

    IATF approves NEDA’s recommendation to further strengthen and improve the use of StaySafe.PH System through automatic contact tracing using the Smart Messaging System. The task force also ratifies the proposal endorsed by the DOT to construct of a free and temporary [public walk-in and drive-thru vaccination centers in the vacant portion of the lots located in Nayong Pilipino Foundation. Resolution No. 109 s. 2021

    04 April 2021 – Resolution No. 108-A

    IATF with the approval of the President, extends until April 11, 2021 the imposition of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in the areas of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, with the highly urbanized cities of the National Capital Region (NCR) and the municipality of Pateros. The Resolution was approved during the 108th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting held on April 3, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 108-A

    03 April 2021 – Resolution No. 108

    IATF approves the procurement and utilization of R[aid Antigen Testing Kits. The Task Force also adopts the joint recommendations of DOLE and DTI for compliance of business establishments in public health standards. The Resolution was approved during the 108th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting held on April 3, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 108

    03 April 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of April 3, 2021

    IATF amends its Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines to harmonize and codify existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine. Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of April 3, 2021

    29 March 2021 – Resolution No. 107-A s. 2021

    IATF recommends to the President the risk-level classifications of provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs), effective 01 April 2021. The Resolution was approved during the 107th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting held on March 29, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 107-A s. 2021

    29 March 2021 – Resolution No. 107 s. 2021

    IATF amends Item 1, paragraph A, sub-paragraph (iii) of its Resolution No. 105 (s. 2021) issued on March 25, 2021. The Resolution was approved during the 107th Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting held on March 29, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 107 s. 2021

    28 March 2021 – Resolution No. 106-B s. 2021

    IATF approves the amendments to its Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines. Resolution No. 106-B s. 2021

    28 March 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of March 28, 2021

    IATF issues its amended Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, as of March 28, 2021, to harmonize and codify existing guidelines of the task force and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine, which shall be applied to all regions, provinces, cities, municipalities and barangays placed under community quarantine. Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of March 28, 2021

    27 March 2021 – Resolution No. 106-A s. 2021

    IATF recommends for approval of the President, to place Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, together with the highly urbanized cities of the National Capital Region (NCR), and the municipality of Pateros under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) immediately upon approval until April 04, 2021. Resolution No. 106-A s. 2021

    25 March 2021 – Resolution No. 105 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG) for Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to conduct and administer the licensure examinations for professionals scheduled for May and June 2021, with observance of the strict health protocols. The task force also allows the once-a-day religious gatherings for the celebration of their respective worship/service from April 1, 2021 to April 4, 2021. Resolution No. 105 s. 2021

    18 March 2021 – Resolution No. 103 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) Task Group Recovery Cluster on the Priority Group A4 of the National COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment Plan selected based on necessity of the service provided for the public and level of exposure. The task force also ratifies the recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG). Resolution No. 103 s. 2021

    11 March 2021 – Resolution No. 102 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations of the DOH, to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of the minimum public health standards. The Resolution was approved during its 102nd inter-agency task force meeting held on March 11, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 102 s. 2021

    26 February 2021 – Resolution No. 101 s. 2021

    IATF approves the uniform travel protocols for land, air, and sea of the Department of Local and Interior Government (DILG), which was crafted in close coordination with the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Provinces of the Philippines, League of Municipalities of the Philippines, and the League of Cities of the Philippines. The Resolution was approved during the task force’s 101st inter-agency task force meeting held on February 26, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 101 s. 2021

    18 February 2021 – Resolution No. 100 s. 2021

    The IATF amends Section [4], Paragraph 12 of the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community quarantine in the Philippines, in order to harmonize the provisions of the Omnibus Guidelines on mass gatherings in areas under General Community Quarantine with the businesses, industries, and activities that have since been allowed by subsequent IATF resolutions. Resolution No. 100 s. 2021

    11 February 2021 – Resolution No. 99 s. 2020

    IATF adopts the recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG), relaxing the restrictions on mass gatherings for religious activities in areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) and the re-opening of some businesses/industries. The Resolution was approved during the task force’s 99th inter-agency meeting held on February 11, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 99 s. 2020

    11 February 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of February 11, 2021

    IATF issues its amended Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines as of February 11, 2021, to harmonize and codify with existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine. Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of February 11, 2021

    04 February 2021 – Resolution No. 98-A s. 2021

    IATF allows the unimpeded travel of government officials/employees on official business to their place of destination, and not requiring them to undergo mandatory testing and/or quarantine protocols of the local government units (LGUS) of destination. The Resolution was approved during the IATF’s 98th Inter-Agency Meeting held on February 04, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 98-A s. 2021

    04 February 2021 – Resolution No. 98 s. 2021

    IATF adopts the Resolution of the Interim National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (iNITAG) and DOH Technical Advisory Group (DOH-TAG) on the prioritization framework for vaccination/immunization. IATF also directs the Vaccine Cluster Task Group on COVID-19 Immunization Program to issue appropriate guidelines based on the iNITAG and DOH-TAG resolution. The Resolution was approved during the IATF’s 98th Inter-Agency Meeting held on February 04, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 98 s. 2021

    28 January 2021 – Resolution No. 97 s. 2021

    IATF approves/issues the conditions for foreign nationals who will be allowed entry in the country, effective February 01, 2021. IATF also approves the recommendation of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 Task Group on Food Security to ensure the unhampered passage of hog shipment from Visayas and Mindanao. The Resolution was signed in behalf of the Inter-Agency Task Force by the Chairperson and Co-Chairperson on January 28, 2021. Resolution No. 97 s. 2021

    26 January 2021 – Resolution No. 96 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendation of its Technical Working Group (TWG) on COVID-19 new variants. The Resolution was signed by the IATF Chairperson and Co-Chairperson, in behalf of the Inter-Agency Task Force on January 26, 2021. Resolution No. 96 s. 2021

    21 January 2021 – Resolution No. 95 s. 2021

    IATF ratifies the National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19. The task force also amends Section 5 of its Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, which requires any person below ten (10) years old and who are over sixty-five (65) years of age in areas placed under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), to remain in their residences at all times, starting February 01, 2021. IATF also approves the various recommendations of its Technical Working Group (TWG). Resolution No. 95 s. 2021

    21 January 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of January 21, 2021

    IATF issues the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines as of January 21, 2021, to harmonize and codify with existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community quarantine. Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of January 21, 2021

    14 January 2021 – Resolution No. 94 s. 2021

    IATF approves the recommendations from various government agencies through its Resolution No. 94 series of 2021, signed by its IATF Co-Chairperson upon authority of its Members on January 14, 2021 via video conference. Resolution No. 94 s. 2021

    14 January 2021 – Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of January 14, 2021

    IATF issues its updated Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments as of January 14, 2021, to harmonize and codify with existing guidelines of the IATF and member-agencies pertaining to community a Quarantine. IATF updated Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines with Amendments

    05 January 2021 – Resolution No. 92 s. 2020

    The IATF approves the recommendations buy its Technical Working Group (TWG), as approved by the task force’s Chairperson and Co-Chairperson, I behalf o the inter-Agency Task Force via videoconference held on January 05, 2021. Resolution No. 92 s. 2020


    Land Transportation Office

    LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO)


    Manila International Airport Authority

    MANILA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY (MIAA)


    Maritime Industry Authority

    MARITIME INDUSTRY AUTHORITY (MARINA)

    21 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-48: Guidelines on STCW Related Activities During the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine in NCR and Some Areas Beginning August 23 to August 31, 2021

    MARINA notifies all concerned of the allowed activities subject to implementation of strict health protocols, in view of the implementation of Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in NCR starting 21 August 2021. Advisory No. 2021-48

    01 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-44: Ships’ Related Guidelines During the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ)

    MARINA reiterates its ship’s related guidelines during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Advisory No. 2021-44

    31 July 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-43: Seafarer-Related Guidelines During Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ)

    MARINA implements the guidelines for the conduct of trainings, examination and assessments, and issuance of STCW certificates, in view of the declaration of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in the National Capital Region (NCR). Advisory No. 2021-43

    26 July 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-41: Roll-Out of 30K Moderna Vaccines

    MARINA issues the guidelines for the orderly deployment of Moderna vaccines, which will be rolled-out for all seafarers who are scheduled for deployment within the next ninety (90) days. Advisory No. 2021-41

    01 June 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-29: Further Extension of the Validity of STCW Certificates as a Temporary Contingency Measures Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

    MARINA issued the guidelines relative to the extension of the validity of the STCW certificates. MARINA Advisory No. 2021-29

    25 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-28: Registration of Filipino Seafarers Scheduled for Deployment Within the Next 90 Days to the Vaccination Program of the Government

    MARINA advises all registered shipping companies and licensed manning agencies to prepare and submit their deployment plan for the period covering July to September 2021 to MARINA, in order for qualified seafarers scheduled for deployment to receive the doses of COVID-19 vaccines under the vaccination program of the government. Advisory No. 2021-28

    12 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-26: Mandatory Registration Using the Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PASS) Travel Management System in All Domestic Maritime Travel

    MARINA informs all concerned that passengers on ships are required to register their information using the S-PASS, which can be accessed via s-pass.ph. Advisory No. 2021-26

    11 April 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-20: Approved Standard for Sea Travel Protocols Under the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine in NCR+ and Other Selected Areas

    MARINA notifies that the Maritime transport shall continue servicing the public at fifty percent (50%) capacity following the protocols provided by the Department of Transportation (DOTr). Advisory No. 2021-20

    28 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-17: Approved Standard for Sea Travel Protocols

    MARINA informs all concerned that maritime transport shall continue servicing the public at fifty percent (50%) capacity following the protocols provided by the Department of Transport (DOTr). Advisory No. 2021-17

    28 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-16: Seafarer-Related Guidelines in View of the Declaration of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in NCR Plus from March 29 to April 4, 2021

    MARINA issues the guidelines in the conduct of trainings, examination and assessments, and issuance of STCW certificates, in view of the declaration of ECQ in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal. Advisory No. 2021-16

    08 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-13: Approved Standardized Sea Travel Protocols

    <p class=MARINA issues the approved standardized travel protocols for sea, effective March 01, 2021, pursuant to DOTr Memorandum dated February 27, 2021, and in relation to the IATF Resolution No. 101 series of 2021. Advisory No. 2021-13

    02 March 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-11: Extension of Implementation of MARINA Advisory No. 2020-59 (Blended Learning Mode of Training)

    MARINA extends the implementation of its Advisory No. 2020-59, in consideration of the general public safety and the extension of the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Manila and other parts of the country. Advisory No. 2021-11

    19 February 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-09: Extension of MARINA Policies on the Reduction of Fees and Charges, Waiver of Fines and Other Monetary Penalties for Late Filing, Non-Filing or Failure to Comply with Compulsory Notifications or Reportorial Requirements, and Extension of Deadlines for the Filing of Documents

    MARINA further adopts and grants the extension of policies on the reduction of fees and charges, waiver of fines and other monetary penalties for late filing, non-filing or failure to comply with compulsory notifications or reportorial requirements, and extension of deadlines for the filing of document on the reduction, pursuant to Section 3(a), Section 4(gg), sub-par. (2), par. (tt) and par. (www) of Republic Act No. 11494 and in relation to various issued MARINA Advisories. Advisory No. 2021-09


    Mines and Geosciences Bureau

    MINES AND GEOSCIENCES BUREAU (MGB)


    National Privacy Commission

    NATIONAL PRIVACY COMMISSION (NPC)

    07 October 2021 – PHE Bulletin No. 21 s. 2021: Preventive Data Privacy Practices Against Smishing

    NPC reminds organizations to safeguard the personal data that they process against smishing. PHE Bulletin No. 21 s. 2021

    16 September 2021 – PHE Bulletin No. 20 s. 2021: Processing of Vaccination Cards for Promos, Raffles, or Discounts

    NPC issues the procedures in securing the data/information of eligible individuals joining promos, raffles, or discounts, as rewards for being vaccinated. PHE Bulletin No. 20 s. 2021

    01 May 2021 – PHE Bulletin No. 19 s. 2021: Personal Data Processing for the COVID-19 Vaccination Program

    NPC reminds all personal information controllers (PICs), whether in the government or the private sector of the proper manner to accomplish masterlisting activity without unnecessarily compromising personal data and infringing on the data privacy rights of individuals wanting to be vaccinated against COVID-19. PHE Bulletin No. 19 s. 2021

    11 April 2021 – PHE Bulletin No. 18 s. 2021: Online Raffles and Other Games of Chance: Ensuring Proper Safeguards in the Collection of Personal Data

    NPC advises the participants of online raffles and other games of chance in sharing their personal data, in view of recent reports where cash and/or livelihood assistance can be won instantly.

    16 February 2021 – PHE Bulletin No. 17 s. 2021: Update on the Data Privacy Best Practices in Online Learning

    NPC recommends the practices which may be implemented in the conduct of synchronous online classes. PHE Bulletin No. 17 s. 2021


    National Task Force for COVID-19

    NATIONAL TASK FORCE AGAINST COVID-19

    16 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 5 s. 2021: Temporary Suspension of Travel Into the Philippines of Foreigners and Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) Who Are Non-Overseas Filipino Workers (Non-OFWs)

    NTF directs all concerned member agencies of the NTF to limit the number of inbound international passenger arrivals to only one thousand five hundred (1,500) a day and to temporarily suspend the entry of Foreign Nationals and Returning Overseas Filipinos who are non-OFWs beginning March 20, 2021 to April 19, 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 5 s. 2021


    Office of the President

    OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT (OP)

    10 September 2021 – Proclamation No. 1218 s. 2021: Further Extending the Period of a State of Calamity Throughout the Philippines Due to Corona Virus Disease 2019 Declared Under Proclamation No. 1021, S. 2020

    The President further extends the declared State of Calamity throughout the Philippines for a period of one (1) year, effective 13 September 2021 to 12 September 2022, unless earlier lifted or extended as circumstances may warrant. Proclamation No. 1218 s. 2021

    20 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 88 s. 2021: Extending the Applicability of Memorandum Circular No. 87 (s. 2021) on the On-Site Capacity to be Observed by Government Agencies and Instrumentalities in the Nation Capital Region for the Period of 21 to 31 August 2021

    The President extends the applicability of Memorandum Circular No. 87 series of 2021, which determines the on-site capacity to be observed by government agencies and instrumentalities in NCR for the period of 21 to 31 August 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 88 s. 2021

    03 August 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 87 s. 2021: Establishing the On-Site Capacity to be Observed by Government Agencies and Instrumentalities in the National Capital Region for the Period of 06 to 20 August 2021

    The President orders the full operations of government agencies and instrumentalities during the period of 06 to 20 August 2021 in the National Capital Region (NCR), subject to the on-site capacity and work-from-home arrangements. Memorandum Circular No. 87 s. 2021

    23 July 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Imposition of Travel Restrictions on Travelers from Malaysia and Thailand

    The Executive Secretary directs all concerned agencies to implement the travel restrictions on travelers from Malaysia and Thailand, in line with the Joint Recommendation of the DOH and DFA to prevent the further entry of the B.1.617 Variant of the SARS-COV-2, also known as the Delta Variant. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Imposition of Travel Restrictions on Travelers from Malaysia and Thailand

    01 June 2021 – Administrative Order No. 43 s. 2021: Authorizing the Grant of Hazard Pay to Government Personnel Who Physically Report for Work During the Period of Implementation of an Enhanced Community Quarantine and a Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine, Amending Administrative Order No. 26 (S.2020), and for Other Purposes

    The President orders the amendment of Section 1 of Administrative Order No. 26 series of 2020. Administrative Order No. 43 s. 2021

    01 June 2021 – Administrative Order No. 42 s. 2021: Authorizing the Continued Grant of the COVID-19 Special Risk Allowance to Public and Private Health Workers Directly Catering to or in Contact With COVID-19 Patients During the State of National Emergency

    The President authorizes national government agencies, government-owned or-controlled corporations, and local government units to further grant the COVID-19 Special Risk Allowance (SRA) under AO No. 36, subject to the same terms, conditions and exclusions therein. Administrative Order No. 42 s. 2021

    31 May 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on the Chairperson and Members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF): Extension of the Imposition of Travel Restrictions on Travelers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman and the United Arab Emirates to Prevent the Entry of the SARS-COV-2-B.1.617 Variant first Detected in India

    The Executive Secretary informs the Chairperson and Members of the IATF on the President’s approval of task force’s recommendation to extend the travel restrictions on all travelers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman and the United Arab Emirates until 15 June 2021. OP Memorandum 31 May 2021

    27 May 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Nationwide Enforcement of Testing and Quarantine Protocols for Inbound Travels and Diversion of International Flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Ninoy Aquino International Airport

    The Executive Secretary directs all relevant agencies to implement the testing and quarantine protocols for inbound travels and diversion of international flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Ninoy Aquino International Airport, as recommended by the IATF and to further prevent the spread of COVID-19. – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Nationwide Enforcement of Testing and Quarantine Protocols for Inbound Travels and Diversion of International Flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Ninoy Aquino International Airport

    24 May 2021 – Executive Order No. 137 s. 2021: Accelerating and Harmonizing Aid and Humanitarian Operations of the National Government During Disasters and Emergencies

    The President orders to institutionalize the “Aid and Humanitarian Operations Nationwide” (AHON) Convergence Program as a platform for an enhanced and unified delivery of social amelioration services. Executive Order No. 137 s. 2021

    12 May 2021 – Administrative Order No. 41 s. 2021: Directing All Agencies of the Executive Department to Identify Savings from Their Respective Appropriations Under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2020, for Consideration in the Augmentation of Deficiencies in Items of Appropriations Therein, in View of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

    The President directs the departments, agencies, bureaus and offices of the National Government to identify portions or balances of their released appropriations under the FY2020 GAA that may be declared as savings, particularly those which have not been obligated as a result of the completion, final discontinuance or abandonment of programs, activities or projects (P/A/Ps) for which the appropriation is authorized, or those corresponding to P/A/Ps which have not been obligated as a result of the implementation of measures resulting in improved systems and efficiencies and thus enabled an agency to meet and deliver the required or planned targets, programs and services at a lesser cost. Administrative Order No. 41 s. 2021

    11 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 86 s. 2021: Ensuring Compliance of Government Agencies and Instrumentalities with Heath Protocols Applicable to Their Workplaces During the State of Public Health Emergency, and for Other Purposes

    The President orders all heads of government agencies and instrumentalities of the executive branch , including government-owned or-controlled corporations (GOCCs) to empower and mobilize their respective Safety and Health Commitments to strictly enforce and monitor compliance with all health protocols in their respective workplaces. Memorandum Circular No. 86 s. 2021

    05 May 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on imposition of Travel Restrictions on Travelers from Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh to Prevent the Entry of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 Variant First Reported in India

    The Office of the Executive Secretary directs all concerned agencies to prohibit entrance of all passengers coming from or who have been to Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh within 14 days immediately preceding arrival in the Philippines effective 07 May 2021 until 14 May 2021. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on imposition of Travel Restrictions on Travelers from Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh to Prevent the Entry of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 Variant First Reported in India

    27 March 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Imposition of Enhanced Community quarantine (ECQ) in Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and the National Capital Region

    The Executive Secretary informs all concerned of the President’s approval of the IATF’s recommendations to place Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal and the National Capital Region (NCR) under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), effective 12:01 am of 29 March 2021 until end of 04 April 2021. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Imposition of Enhanced Community quarantine

    26 February 2021 – Proclamation No. 1107 s. 2021: Amending Proclamation No. 986, S. 2020, Declaring the Regular Holidays and Special (Non-Working) Days for the Year 2021

    The President amends Section 1 of Proclamation No. 986 s. 2021, declaring November 2 (All Souls’ Day), December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 31, 2021 (Last Day of the Year) as Special (Working) Days, for the country to recover from adverse economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Proclamation No. 1107 s. 2021

    18 February 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 51 s. 2021: Granting Authority to Make Advance Payments for the Procurement of COVID-19 Vaccines, Prescribing Conditions Therefor, and for Other Purposes

    The President authorizes the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) and the Department of Health (DOH) to make advance payments exceeding fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract amount for the procurement of CVOID-19 vaccines. Memorandum Order No. 51 s. 2021

    31 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 29, 2021: Community Quarantine Classification of Provinces, Highly Urbanized Cities and Independent Component Cities from 01-28 February 2021

    The Executive Secretary issues the community quarantine classification of provinces, highly urbanized cities and independent component cities from February 01 to 28, 2021. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated 29 January 2021

    26 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Inclusion of Czech Republic in the List of Countries/Jurisdictions Subjected to Travel Restrictions Relative to the SARS-COV-2 Variants

    The Executive Secretary directs all relative government agencies to include the Czech Republic among the countries/jurisdictions subject to travel restrictions. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Inclusion of Czech Republic in the List of Countries/Jurisdictions Subjected to Travel Restrictions Relative to the SARS-COV-2 Variants

    15 January 2021 – Executive order No. 123 s. 2021: Modifying the Rates of Import Duty on Certain Agricultural Products Under Section 1611 of Republic Act No. 10863, Otherwise Known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act

    The President orders the modification on the rates of import duty on certain agricultural products under Section 1611 of Republic Act (RA) No. 10863, in view of the continuing crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive order No. 123 s. 2021

    15 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Additional Measures to be Observed Relative to the SARS-COV-2 Variant

    The Executive Secretary directs all relative government agencies to include the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Hungary in the countries/jurisdictions subject to travel restrictions. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary on Additional Measures

    12 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 12, 2021: Additional Countries/Jurisdictions Subject to Travel Restrictions Relative to the SARS-COV-2 Variant First Detected in the United Kingdom

    The Executive Secretary directs all relevant agencies to implement the inclusion of Pakistan, Jamaica, Luxembourg, Oman, and the People’s Republic of China among the countries/jurisdictions subject to travel restrictions. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 12, 2021

    05 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 05, 2021: Additional Measures to be Observed Relative to SARS-COV-2 Variant First Detected in the United Kingdom

    The Executive Secretary directs all relevant agencies to implement the inclusion of Portugal, India, Finland, Norway, Jordan, and Brazil among the countries/jurisdictions subject to travel restrictions; and the rules on incoming unaccompanied minor Filipino passengers. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 05, 2021

    04 January 2021 – Report on the Implementation of Republic Act No. 11494 or the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act

    The Office of the President (OP) submits its recent updates and developments relative to the whole-of-government response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in compliance to Section 14 of Republic Act No. 11494 or the “Bayanihan to Recover as One Act” (Bayanihan 2). Report on the Implementation of Republic Act No. 11494

    01 January 2021 – Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 01, 2021: Community Quarantine Classification of Provinces, Highly Urbanized Cities and Independent Component Cities from 01-31 January 2021

    The Executive Secretary issues the community quarantine classification of provinces, highly urbanized cities and independent component cities from January 01 to 31, 2021. Memorandum from the Executive Secretary Dated January 01, 2021


    Philippine Competition Commission

    PHILIPPINE COMPETITION COMMISSION (PCC)

    26 May 2021 – Public Advisory Re: Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine

    PCC announces its adoption of the Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine, in compliance with the amended Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines adopted by the Office of the President and the health protocols prescribed by the IATF.

    PCC Public Advisory 26 May 2021

    25 May 2021 – Commission Resolution No. 006-2021: Adopting the Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine

    PCC adopts its Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine, in order to ensure that laws and regulations are duly complied with during all categories of community quarantine . Commission Resolution No. 006-2021

    25 May 2021 – Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine

    PCC issues its Interim Guidelines During Periods Community Quarantine. Interim Guidelines During Periods of Community Quarantine

    30 April 2021 – Public Advisory: PCC Work Arrangements and Applicable Guidelines During the Extended MECQ Period in NCR+

    In line with the extended Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) status in NCR, the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal, PCC informs of its continued adoption of the guidelines on work arrangements and pending matters set forth in PCC Advisory dated 14 April 2021. PCC Public Advisory 30 April 2021

    14 April 2021 – Public Advisory Re: PCC Work Arrangements and Applicable Guidelines for Filing and Service of Documents, Pleadings, and Papers During the MECQ Period

    PCC advises that it shall continue to operate with an onsite skeleton workforce pursuant to the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, to ensure the timely and uninterrupted delivery of the PCC’s services during the current MECQ. PCC Public Advisory 14 April 2021

    08 April 2021 – Public Advisory Re: Continued Implementation of the Interim Guidelines under Commission Resolution 21-2020 and Commission Resolution No. 18-2020

    PCC informs all concerned of the continues implementation of its Interim Guidelines on the Resumption of Adjudication Proceedings during General Community Quarantine and Modified General Community Quarantine. PCC Public Advisory 08 April 2021

    18 March 2021 – Public Advisory Re: Suspension of Office Work on March 18-19, 2021 for Disinfection

    PCC advises all concerned that their office is temporarily closed from March 18 to 19, 2021, to facilitate disinfection of the premises after an employee tested positive for COVID-19. PCC further advises its clients to transact business online. PCC Public Advisory 18 March 2021


    Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving

    PHILIPPINE COMMISSION ON SPORTS SCUBA DIVING (PCSSD)

    27 May 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-001: Amended Guidelines on the Operations of Dive Establishments and Liveaboard Dive Boats Under A Community Quarantine

    PCSSD issues its amended guidelines on the operations of dive establishments and liveaboard dive boats under a community quarantine, to augment efforts to promote the recovery of the tourism and diving industry. Administrative Order No. 2021-001

    27 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-002: Amended Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Dive Establishments and Liveaboard Dive Boats in the New Normal

    To include the liveaboard dive boats in its Guidelines, PCSSD issues its amended Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Dive Establishments and Liveaboard Dive Boats in the New Normal. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-002


    Philippine Economic Zone Authority

    PHILIPPINE ECONOMIC ZONE AUTHORITY (PEZA)

    29 September 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-055: COVID-19 Guidelines for Physical Attendance to Events and Meetings at the PEZA Head Office

    PEZA issues its COVID-19 guidelines for physical attendance to events and meetings at its head office, pursuant to the government’s efforts to gradually open and revive the economy. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-055

    09 June 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-040: Vaccination of Eligible Sectors under A4 Priority Group (Ecozone Workers)

    PEZA announces the IATF’s approval of its request to include all PEZA Ecozone Workers, who are part of the A4 priority group (frontline personnel in essential sectors) in the government’s COVID-19 free vaccination program. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-040

    03 May 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-028: Vaccine Procurement Through Service Providers

    PEZA provides the steps to be taken by PEZA-registered enterprises/developers for the vaccine procurement through service providers. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-028

    20 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-026: Supplemental Advisory Regarding the Temporary Suspension of Processing of PEZA Endorsement for Travel Ban Exemption Requests

    PEZA advises all concerned that its Foreign National Unit (PEZA-FNU) will temporarily defer accepting/processing requests for PEZA Endorsements for Travel Ban Exemptions to the DFA-OCA until 30 April 2021. PEZA further enjoins locators to file/refile their requests after 30 April 2021, or until further notice. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-026

    27 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-024: PEZA Assistance to Ecozone I.T. Enterprises Under ECQ for the Period 29 March 2021 Until 04 April 2021 and for the Duration of Any Extension of the Said Period by the Office of the President

    PEZA allows the work from home arrangements for all its I.T. Enterprise located in the NCR Bubble without need for a Letter of Authority from PEZA , and without need to file the required PEZA Permits prior to moving out equipment from their PEZA-registered facilities. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-024

    23 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-021: Temporary Suspension of Processing of PEZA Endorsements for Travel Ban Exemption Requests

    PEZA informs all concerned of DFA-Office of the Consular Affairs’ (DFA-OCA) suspension of the processing of entry exemption from March 22 to April 21, 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-021

    17 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019: Temporary Suspension of Travel Into the Philippines by Foreign Nationals

    PEZA informs all concerned that pursuant to National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) Memorandum Circular No. 5 series of 2021, entry of foreign nationals will be temporarily suspended beginning March 20, 2021 until April 19, 2021. PEZA will continue to receive ad process applications/requests for Travel Ban Exemptions for Endorsement to and further evaluation/appropriate action of the DFA – Office of the Consular Affairs (DFA-OCA). Memorandum Circular No. 2021-019

    09 March 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-018: Second Advisory on COVID-19 Vaccine Procurement by PEZA-Registered Enterprises

    PEZA advises all its PEZA-registered enterprises to commence negotiations with local government units (LGUs), the private sector and civil society for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for their employees following the guidelines prescribed by IATF, DOH and FDA. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-018

    18 February 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-013: Advisory on Issuance of PEZA Travel Pass for Departing 47(a)(2) Visa Holders Effective 01 March 2021

    PEZA advises all departing 47(a)(2) Visa holders to present a Travel Pass to the immigration counters as part of the documentary requirements upon departure, effective March 01, 2021, as per IATF Resolution No. 99-A dated February 11, 2021. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-013

    04 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001: Temporary Suspension of Processing of Travel Ban Exemption Requests of Foreign Nationals from Countries with New Variants of COVID-19

    PEZA informs economic zone developers/enterprises and economic zone administrators/managers/OICs of DFA’s temporary stop on the acceptance and processing of exemption requests of foreign nationals coming from or applying for visa from countries with new variants of COVID-19. Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001


    Philippine Guarantee Corporation

    PHILIPPINE GUARANTEE CORPORATION


    Philippine Health Insurance Corporation

    PHILIPPINE HEALTH INSURANCE CORPORATION (PHILHEALTH)

    15 October 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-041: Implementation of Revised Price Caps for SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Test and Test Kits (DOH Department Circular No. 2021-0374)

    PHILHEALTH issues the new price caps for public and private health facilities for plate-based and cartridge-based COVID-19 RT-PCR tests which became effective last September 6, 2021. <a href=”https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/advisories/2021/adv2021-041.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener Advisory No. 2021-041

    10 October 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-039: The COVID-19 Injury Compensation Package and the Benefits Under the National Health Insurance Program

    The COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021 (Republic Act No. 11525) established the COVID-19 National Vaccine Indemnity Fund with PhilHealth as the administrator. The Fund would compensate persons inoculated through the National COVID-19 Vaccination Program in case of death, permanent disability, and hospital confinement for serious adverse effects. Advisory No. 2021-039

    28 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-2366: Public Health Warning Against the Purchase and Use of the Uncertified COVID-19 Test Kit “CIRCLE HEALTH POD SET”

    FDA warns all healthcare professionals and the general public NOT TO PURCHASE AND USE the uncertified COVID-19 test kit “Circle Health Pod Set”. Advisory No. 2021-2366

    23 September 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-036: Implementation of Annex E Certificate of At-Risk Individuals and Actual Charges for SARS-CoV-2 Test as a Claim Requirement for Accredited Testing Laboratories is Moved to October 1, 2021

    PHILHEALTH advises all concerned that Certificate of Classification of At-Risk Individuals and SARS-CoV-2 Test for claims of reimbursement shall be required from 1 October 2021 onwards. Advisory No. 2021-036

    29 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-031: Extension of Filing of SARS-CoV-2 Testing Claims Until September 12, 2021

    PHILHEALTH advises all concerned that it shall process testing claims with specimen collection dates beginning 25 June 2020 for RT-PCR (plate-based) test and 23 July 2020 for cartridge-based PCR test, whether re-filed, pending due to motion for reconsideration, for appeal, directly filed, or yet to be filed until 12 September 2021. Advisory No. 2021-031

    26 August 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0016: Application of Debit-Credit Payment Method (DCPM) to Facilitate the Settlement of Accounts Payable to Healthcare Facility (HCFs) During the State of Public Health Emergency Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic (Revision 2)

    PHILHEALTH issues the guidelines in facilitating the settlement of accounts payable to Healthcare Facility (HCFs) in order to ensure continuous delivery of health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular No. 2021-0016

    05 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-028: PhilHealth Coverage of Health Services Admitted in Tents Within the Hospital Compound

    PHILHEALTH advises all concerned that claims for health services of PHILHEALTH beneficiaries admitted in tents located within the compound of accredited hospitals in areas which are categorized as high or critical risk for COVID-19 by IATF shall be compensable starting 29 Match 2021. Advisory No. 2021-028

    05 August 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-027: Reiteration of Provision of PHILHEALTH Circular No. 35 S. 2013 for Admitted Patients Staying in Emergency Room Pending Availability of Rooms

    PHILHEALTH advises all concerned that patients including COVID-19 cases being admitted and managed in the ER due to lack of available regular rooms shall be paid accordingly if the patient stayed within the hospital for at least 24 hours. Advisory No. 2021-027

    04 August 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0012: Modification on the Payment Rules of Benefit Packages Under All Case Rates (ACR) Policy Including COVID-19 Benefit Packages

    PHILHEALTH provides the implementing guidelines on modified payment rules of All Case Rates (ACR) benefit packages including COVID-19 Benefit packages with actual charges lower than the case rates. Circular No. 2021-0012

    15 June 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0008: Clarification on the Coverage for COVID-19 Inpatient Benefit Package

    PHILHEALTH clarifies the coverage of the COVID-19 Inpatient packages provided in its Circular No. 2020-009. Circular No. 2021-0008

    15 June 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0007: Implementing Guidelines on the Coverage of COVID-19 Vaccine Injury Due to Serious Adverse Effects (SAEs)Following Immunization Resulting in Hospitalization, Permanent Disability, or Death Under the COVID-19 National Vaccine Indemnity Fund (The COVID-19 Vaccine Injury Compensation Package)

    PHILHEALTH issues the guidelines on the coverage of COVID-19 vaccine injury due to Serious Adverse Effects (SAEs) following immunization under the COVID-19 National Vaccine Indemnity Fund, to provide compensation, for any vaccines administered through the COVID-19 Vaccination Program, in case of hospital confinement, permanent disability, or death to SAEs. Circular No. 2021-0007

    25 May 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0006: Application of Debit-Credit Payment Method (DCPM) to Facilitate the Settlement of Accounts Payable to Healthcare Facility (HCFs) During the State of Public Health Emergency Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic (Revision 1)

    PHILHEALTH provides the guidelines in facilitating the settlement of accounts payable to healthcare facility (HCFs) in order to ensure continuous delivery of health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular No. 2021-0006

    11 March 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0003: Benefit Package for SARS-CoV-2 Testing Using Cartridge-based PCR

    PHILHEALTH issues its benefit package for SARS-CoV-2 testing using cartridge-based PCR. Circular NO. 2021-0003

    17 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-013: Coverage of COVID-19 Inpatient Benefit Packages for Confirmed Cases Only

    To efficiently implement the National Health Insurance Program, PHILHEALTH amend the benefit package for the inpatient management of COVID-19 to cover only confirmed cases. Advisory No. 2021-013

    03 May 2021 – Advisory No. 2021-010: Full Financial Risk Protection for Healthcare Workers

    PHILHEALTH requests health care providers to provide a copy of the result of the SARS-CoV-2 test done to health care workers who contacted COVID-19, together with other required documents when filing a claim for full financial risk protection. Advisory No. 2021-010

    08 April 2021 – Circular No. 2021-0004: Application of Debit-Credit Payment Method (DCPM) to Facilitate the Settlement of Accounts Payable to Healthcare Facility (HCFs) During the State of Public Health Emergency Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

    PHILHEALTH provides the guidelines in facilitating the settlement of accounts payable to healthcare facility (HCFs) in order to ensure continuous delivery of health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Circular No. 2021-0004


    Philippine Ports Authority

    PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY (PPA)

    28 January 2021 – Memorandum Circular No. 002-2021: Extension of the Implementation of Financial Assistance for the Critically-Impacted Maritime Sector Under Republic Act (RA) No. 11494

    PPA extends the period for the implementation of the financial assistance prescribed in its Memorandum Circular No. 42-2020 until January 28, 2021 to June 30, 2021, or until such time the fund assistance shall have been depleted, whichever comes earlier. Memorandum Circular No. 002-2021


    Republic ActsRepublic Acts

    REPUBLIC ACTS AND RELATED ISSUANCES

    26 February 2021 – Republic Act No. 11525 s. 2021: An Act Establishing the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Expediting the Vaccine Procurement and Administration Process, Providing Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes

    Authorizing the DOH and NTF, to jointly or in cooperation with any national government agency or instrumentality or LGU, to procure COVID-19 vaccines , including ancillary supplies and services necessary for their storage, transport, deployment, and administration through Negotiated Procurement under Emergency Cases pursuant to Section 53(b) of Republic Act No. 9184 and Section 53.2 of the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9184. Republic Act No. 11525 s. 2021

    16 February 2021 – Republic Act No. 11523 s. 2021: An Act Ensuring Philippine Financial Industry Resiliency Against the COVID-19 Pandemic

    The President signs into law Republic Act No. 11523 s. 2021, in order to strengthen the financial sector so that the economic recovery can be achieved faster, and with more lasting positive effects. The Act shall also be known as “Financial Institutions Strategic Transfer (FIST) Act”. Republic Act No. 11523 s. 2021


    Securities and Exchange Commission

    SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (SEC)

    22 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 22 September 2021, in line with its continuous limited capacity operation and implementation of the alternative work arrangements while quarantine measures remain in place across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Advisory No. 2021-036

    17 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its Contact Center, in line with its continued limited capacity operation and implementation of alternative work arrangements while quarantine measures remains in place across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    15 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Cancellation of SEC Certification Examinations Starting 16 September 2021

    In compliance with the Guidelines on the Pilot Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response in the National Capital Region (NCR) issued by the IATF, placing NCR under Alert Level 4, during the first week of the pilot implementation of the COVID-19 Alert Level System, SEC cancels starting 16 September 2021, the conduct of its SEC Certification Examinations in its Head Office. SEC Notice Re: Cancellation of SEC Certification Examinations Starting 16 September 2021

    08 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Extension on Submission of Forms/Notices Pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 28, Series of 2020

    SEC extends the deadline, until 11 November 2021, for Corporations, Partnerships, and Individuals under the jurisdiction and supervision of the Commission to comply with its Memorandum Circular No. 28, series of 2020, without penalty, in view of its effort to bolster the economic recovery of the business sector during the pandemic. SEC Notice Re: Extension on Submission of Forms/Notices Pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 28

    03 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Guidelines on the Health and Safety Protocols to be Observed in the Conduct of the SEC Certification Examinations During the COVID-19 Pandemic

    SEC updates its guidelines on the health and safety protocols to be observed in the conduct of the SEC certification examinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, as of 03 September 2021. EC Notice Re: Guidelines on the Health and Safety Protocols

    02 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Resumption of SEC Certification Examinations

    In view of the need to provide critical services to the capital market, SEC resumes the conduct of its certification examinations as scheduled on 08 September 2021, except when the IATF elevates the risk classification of the National Capital Region (NCR) to Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). SEC Notice Re: Resumption of SEC Certification Examinations

    01 September 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 01 September 2021, in line with its limited capacity operation and implementation of alternative work arrangements while quarantine measures remain in place across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    21 August 2021 – SEC Re: Cancellation of SEC Certification Examinations Scheduled Within the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine

    In light of the confirmed presence of COVID-19 Delta variant in the country, SEC informs all concerned that the conduct of the SEC Certification Examinations at its Head Office on 23, 25 and 27 August 2021 is cancelled. EC Re: Cancellation of SEC Certification Examinations Scheduled Within the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine

    09 August 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 09 August 2021, in line with its continuous limited capacity operation and implementation of alternative work arrangements while quarantine measures remain in place across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 09 August 2021

    09 August 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Cebu Extension Office will be Implementing Skeleton Workforce Starting August 05

    In line with the rising cases of COVID-19 patients in Cebu City. SEC – Cebu Extension Office implements a skeleton workforce starting 05 August 2021. SEC Notice Re: Cebu Extension Office Skeleton Workforce 09 August 2021

    03 August 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Cancellation of SEC Certification Examinations Schedule Within the Enhanced Community Quarantine Period (06 August 2021 to 20 August 2021)

    SEC cancels the conduct of SEC Certification Examinations at its Head Office on 06, 09, 11, 13, 16, 18 and 20 August 2021, in compliance with IATF Resolution No. 130-A series of 2021. SEC Notice 03 August 2021

    03 August 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Cebu Extension Office Will be Open from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. Only Starting August 1 Until August 15

    SEC announces that its Cebu Extension Office shall be open from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. starting 1 until 15 August 2021, in view of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) imposed in Cebu City. SEC Notice Re: Cebu Extension Office Hours

    03 August 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 03 August 2021, in line with its continuous limited capacity operation and implementation of the alternative work arrangements due to COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    21 June 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 21 June 2021, in line with its limited capacity and implementation of alternative work arrangements due to COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 21 June 2021

    16 June 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 16 June 2021, in line with its limited capacity and implementation of alternative work arrangements due to COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 16 June 2021

    09 June 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 09 June 2021, in line with its limited capacity and implementation of alternative work arrangements due to COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 09 June 2021

    07 June 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Baguio Extension Office Will be Closed on June 7-8, 2021

    SEC notifies all concerned that its Zamboanga extension office will be temporarily closed on 08 June 2021, as the office premises will undergo further disinfection. SEC Notice 07 June 2021

    06 June 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Baguio Extension Office Will be Closed on June 7-8, 2021

    SEC notifies all concerned that its Baguio extension office will be temporarily closed from 07 to 08 June 2021, in observance of health and safety protocols prescribed by local health units. SEC Notice 06 June 2021

    28 May 2021 – Notice Re: Extension of Deadline to File Mandatory Declarations Under Sections 6 and 7 of MC No. 01, Series of 2021 or “The Beneficial Ownership Transparency Guidelines” to 31 July 2021

    SEC extends the deadline to file mandatory declarations under Sections 6 and 7 of the Beneficial Ownership Transparency Guidelines until 31 July 2021, in consideration of the strict measures imposed under the ECQ and MECQ. SEC Notice 28 May 2021

    25 May 2021 – Notice Re: Extended Deadline for Integrated Annual Corporate Governance Report (I-ACGR)

    SEC extends the deadline for the filing of Integrated Annual Corporate Governance Report (I-ACGR) until 30 June 2021, in recognition of the difficulties that the COVID-19 pandemic and the imposition of the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) may present on the ability of Publicly Listed Companies (PLCs) to timely comply with the requirement. SEC Notice 25 May 2021

    19 May 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC updates its contact information as of 19 May 2021, in line with its limited capacity and implementation of alternative work arrangements due to COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 19 May 2021

    31 March 2021 – MNRC Memorandum Circular No. 01 s. 2021: Prudential Relief Measures to Support Economic Recovery of Accredited Microfinance NGOs

    SEC provides the Microfinance NGO Regulatory Council (MNRC) Memorandum Circular No. 01 series of 2021, which will offer prudential relief measures to encourage accredited microfinance NGOs (MF-NGOs) to concentrate their operations and resources in the continuous delivery of microfinance services during the pandemic. MNRC Memorandum Circular No. 01 s. 2021

    03 May 2021 – Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC provides its updated contact information as of 03 May 2021 in line with its limited capacity operation and implementation of the alternative work arrangements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 03 May 2021

    22 April 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Contact Center

    SEC provides its updated email addresses and phone numbers for queries and other concerns, while it continues to operate at limited capacity and alternative work arrangements while quarantine measures remain in place across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. SEC Notice 22 April 2021

    09 April 2021 – Press Release Re: SEC Allows e-Signature for Financial Statements Submitted Through OST

    SEC allows corporations enrolled in their newly launched Online Submission Tool (OST) to submit electronically signed annual financial statements (AFS) while Metro Manila and nearby provinces remain under enhanced community quarantine. SEC Press Release 09 April 2021

    08 April 2021 – Memorandum Circular no. 05 s. 2021: Extension of the Deadline for the Submission of 2020 Annual Reports for the Calendar Year Ended December 31, 2020

    The Commission en Banc orders the extension of the deadline for the submission of the 2020 Annual Reports for calendar year ended December 31, 2020, from April 15, 2021 to May 17, 2021. Memorandum Circular no. 05 s. 2021

    05 April 2021 – SEC Notice Re: SEC Extends Deadline for GIS Submission

    SEC extends the deadline for the submission of the General Information Sheet (GIS) to allow corporations to cope with the new rounds of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and the transition to an online submission system. SEC Notice 05 April 2021

    30 March 2021 – SEC Notice Re: Non-Extension of Grace Period for Payment of Loans During the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) from 29 March to 04 April 2021

    SEC clarifies that no mandatory grace period was granted for the payment of loans and/or interest falling due within the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) period, from 29 March to 04 April 2021. SEC Notice 30 March 2021

    26 March 2021 – Notice Re: SEC Main Office Will Operate with a Skeleton Workforce from 29 to31 March 2021; SEC Contact Center

    SEC informs all concerned that its Main Office within the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Complex will operate with a skeleton workforce from 29 to 31 March 2021, while Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal remain under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). SEC Notice 26 March 2021

    SEC MEMORANDUM CIRCULARS

    26 March 2021 – Notice Re: Company Registration and Monitoring Department (CRMD) Will be Implementing a Limited Working Capacity Starting Monday Until Wednesday, from 29-31 March 2021

    SEC informs all concerned that its Company Registration and Monitoring Department (CRMD) will be implementing a limited working capacity starting Monday until Wednesday, from 29 – 31 March 2021, to undergo disinfection in light of the increasing number of CRMD employees to contact tracing for CVOID-19. SEC Notice 26 March 2021

    05 January 2021 – SEC Notice on SEC Certification Examinations 1st Quarter 2021 Schedule at the Main Office and Application Procedure

    SEC issues its 1st quarter 2021 schedule for application process and payment options for the SEC Certification Examinations. SEC Notice 05 January 2021


    Social Security System

    SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM (SSS)


    Supreme Court

    SUPREME COURT (SC)

    19 November 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 110-2021: Re: Full Operational Capacity with Flexible Working Arrangement and Limited Personal Filing in the Supreme Court

    SC implements its full operational capacity with flexible working arrangement, wherein half of workforce shall report on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays and the half shall report on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Personal filing shall continue to be allowed but only for initiatory pleadings such as motions for extension of time to file petition, petitions for review, or other original petitions requiring payment of docket fees. Memorandum Order No. 110-2021: Re: Full Operational Capacity with Flexible Working Arrangement and Limited Personal Filing in the Supreme Court

    18 October 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 83-2021: Court Operations Beginning October 20, 2021 Until October 29, 2021

    SC allows all appellate collegiate courts within in NCR the conduct of in-court proceedings on urgent matters and on other matters as may be determined by the presiding justice or the chairpersons of the different divisions., beginning 20 October 2021 until 29 October 2021. SC also lifts the suspension of the time for filing and service of pleadings and motions, regardless of the alert level or community quarantine. Administrative Circular No. 83-2021

    18 October 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 100-2021: Amending Memorandum Order No. 93-2021 Re: Operational Capacity /No Personal Filing

    SC increases the operational capacity of its offices/services to a maximum of thirty percent (30%) from 20 October 2021 to 29 October 2021, in consideration of the of the placement of NCR under Alert Level 3. Memorandum Order No. 100-2021

    01 October 2021 – OCA Circular No. 123-2021: Court Operations Starting 4 October 2021

    SC announces that all first and second level courts within the National Capital Region (NCR) shall remain physically closed to court users except on urgent matters where in-court proceedings may be deemed necessary, at the discretion of the Presiding Judge. OCA Circular No. 123-2021

    01 October 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 75-2021: Court Operations Beginning 4 October 2021

    SC announces that all first and second level courts within the National Capital Region (NCR), except the Supreme Court, shall remain physically closed to court users except on urgent matters where in-court proceedings may be deemed necessary, at the sound discretion of the Presiding Justice or the Chairpersons of the different divisions beginning 4 October 2021. The time for filing and service pleadings and motions during the said period shall remain suspended until further notice. Administrative Circular No. 75-2021

    01 October 2021 – OCA Circular No. 123-2021: Court Operations Starting 4 October 2021

    SC announces that all first and second level courts within the National Capital Region (NCR) shall remain physically closed to court users except on urgent matters where in-court proceedings may be deemed necessary, at the discretion of the Presiding Judge. OCA Circular No. 123-2021

    OCA Circular No. 123-2021

    29 September 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 93-2021: Operational Capacity/Np Personal Filing for the Month of October, 2021

    SC announces the operational capacity of its offices/services beginning 01 October 2021, which shall remain at not exceeding fifteen percent (15%). It further reiterates that the “no personal filing” policy under Memorandum Order No. 65-2021 dated 04 August 2021 shall still be observed and the guidelines contained therein. Memorandum Order No. 93-2021

    28 September 2021 – Bar Bulletin No. 28 s. 2021: On the Resetting of the 2020/21 Bar Examinations

    SC resets the Bar Examinations from November 2021 to January 16, 23, 30, and February 6, 2022, after considering the COVID-19 situation nationally and in all the testing sites, as well as receiving advice from various experts. – Bar Bulletin No. 28 s. 2021

    16 September 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 87-2021: Same Operational Capacity / No Personal Filing Beginning September 22, 2021

    SC announces that notwithstanding the pilot implementation of the granular lockdowns and alert levels guidelines in Metro Manila effective 16 September 2021, the operational capacity of the its offices / services beginning 22 September 2021 shall still be as that provided for under Memorandum Order No. 77-2021 dated 06 September 2021. Memorandum Order No. 87-2021

    15 September 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 72-2021: Court Operations Beginning 16 September 2021

    SC announces that all courts in the NCR will continue to remain physically closed to court users until further notice. Administrative Circular No. 72-2021

    08 September 2021 – OCA Circular No. 120-2021: Addendum to OCA Circular No. 119-2021

    SC informs that all courts, except the SC shall remain physically closed to court users, in view of the re-imposition of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in the National Capital Region (NCR) beginning 08 September 2021. Circular No. 120-2021

    06 September 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 77-2021: Limited Operational Capacity/No Personal Filing from September 8 to 21, 2021

    SC orders the reduced operational capacity of its offices/services, not exceeding fifteen percent (15%) of the offices’/services’ respective total number. SC further extends until 21 September 2021, its “no personal filing” policy under Memorandum Order No. 65-2021. Memorandum Order No. 77-2021

    07 September 2021 – OCA Circular No. 119-2021: Court Operations Beginning 8 September 2021

    SC advises that all courts in NCR, except for the Supreme Court shall remain physically closed to court users until 30 September 2021, in view of the continued surge of confirmed COVID-19 cases in different variants and in consideration of the proposed granular or localized lockdown to be pilot-tested in NCR. Circular No. 119-2021

    31 August 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 74-2021: Maintenance of a Limited Operational Capacity from August 31 to September 7, 2021

    SC reduces the number of employees reporting to the Supreme Court to not exceeding fifteen percent (15%) of the total number of each services and offices. Memorandum Order No. 74-2021

    28 August 2021 – OCA Circular No. 117-2021: Reiteration of OCA Circular No. 114-2021, Dated 20 August 2021

    Upon the instructions of Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) reiterates its Circular No. 114-2021 dated 20 August 2021, in consideration of the declaration of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in NCR and other identified areas until 07 September 2021. OCA Circular No. 117-2021

    11 August 2021 – Bar Bulletin No. 22, S. 2021: Vaccination of Examinees Against COVID-19

    SC encourages bar applicants to avail of the free vaccination offered by their respective local government units, for the protection of bar personnel and examinees. Bar Bulletin No. 22, S. 2021

    04 August 2021 – Memorandum Order No. 65-2021: Amending Memorandum Order No. 64-2021 Dated July 30, 2021

    SC amends its Memorandum Order No. 64-2021 dated 30 July 2021, requiring certain offices to report for work from 30 July to 20 August 2021. Memorandum Order No. 65-2021

    30 July 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 56-2021: Court Operations on 2-20 August 2021

    SC announces that all courts and judicial offices in National Capital Region (NCR) shall be physically closed from 2 to 20 August 2021. Administrative Circular No. 56-2021

    31 May 2021 – OCA Circular No. 67-2021: Conduct of Fully-Remote Videoconferencing Hearings

    Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo approves the conduct of fully-remote videoconferencing hearings by judges of first and second level courts, regardless of their physical location in the country. OCA Circular No. 67-2021

    14 May 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 33-2021: Court Operations Starting 17 May 2021

    Sc announces that all first and second level courts and appellate collegiate courts (except the Supreme Court), and the judicial offices in areas under GCQ shall be physically opened with a skeleton force of at least thirty percent (30%) to at most fifty percent (50%), beginning 17 May 2021 until further notice. Administrative Circular No. 33-2021

    03 May 2021 – Re: Filing and Service of Pleadings, Motions and Other Curt Submissions with the Supreme Court

    SC informs all concerned that in view of its Memorandum order No. 28-2021, the seven (7)-day extension under its previous issuances for the filing and service of pleadings, motions and other court submission with the SC shall start on May 3, 2021. SC further informs that its offices shall be open from 9:00am to 3:00pm on May 03 to 14, 2021. SC Re: Filing and Service of Pleadings, Motions and Other Curt Submissions with the Supreme Court

    30 April 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 29-2021: Work Arrangements in Courts on 3 – 14 May 2021

    SC informs of the continued physical closure until 14 May 2021 of all first and second level courts, and appellate collegiate courts, and their judicial offices in NCR, provinces of Abra, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Quirino, and Rizal, and Santiago City, Isabela. Administrative Circular No. 29-2021

    18 April 2021 – OCA Circular No. 47-2021: Vaccination Against COVID-19

    SC’s Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) directs all judges and court personnel of the first and second level courts who wish to be inoculated under Priority Group A4 of the Judiciary to submit their names and other personal information to the OCA not later than 22 April 2021. OCA Circular No. 47-2021

    14 April 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 22-2021: Physical Closure of Courts in Enhanced Community Quarantine and Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine Areas

    SC extends the physical closure of the courts in areas under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) until 30 April 2021. Administrative Circular No. 22-2021

    11 April 2021 – OCA Circular No. 47-2021: Extending the Coverage of Administrative Circular No. 21-2021 to Courts in Areas Under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine

    SC extends the coverage of courts and judicial offices which are physically closed until 18 April 2021, to include the City of Santiago and the provinces of Quirino and Abra. OCA Circular No. 47-2021

    10 April 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 21-2021: Extension of the Physical Closure of Courts

    SC extends until 18 April 2021 physical closure courts and judicial offices in the NCR and the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal. Administrative Circular No. 21-2021

    03 April 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 15-2021: Extension of the Physical Closure of Courts and the Filing Periods for Pleadings and Other Court Submissions in Light of the Further Extension of the Enhanced Community Quarantine from April 5 to April 11, 2021

    SC extends the physical closure of all courts and court offices in the National Capital Judicial Region , and nearby provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal from April 5 to April 11, 2021. Administrative Circular No. 15-2021

    03 April 2021 – Announcement Re: Inclusion of Judiciary Employees in the Philippines National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 Vaccines

    Acting Chief Justice Estela Perlas-Bernabe informs judiciary employees that SC request for inclusion in priority population group A4 (Category A4) of the Philippine National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 Vaccines has been granted by the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF). SC Announcement 03 April 2021

    30 March 2021 – Bar Matter No. 20, S. 2021: Extended Call for Applications as Local Testing Centers for the November 2021 Bar Examinations

    In consideration of the recently imposed Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila, and provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, the Office of the Bar Chairperson extends the applications as local testing centers for the November 2021 Bar Examinations until April 08, 2021, Thursday. Bar Matter No. 20, S. 2021

    28 March 2021 – Administrative Circular No. 14-2021: Extension of Filing Periods for Pleadings/Court Submissions for Courts in the National Capital Judicial Region and Nearby Provinces Placed Under Enhanced Community Quarantine from March 29 to April 4, 2021

    SC extends for three (3) calendar days, counted from April 5, 2021, the filing of pleadings and other court submissions that fall during the period from March 29 to March 31, 2021. Administrative Circular No. 14-2021

    23 March 2021 – OCA Circular No. 44-2021: Court Operations in the First and Second Level Court in the National Capital Judicial Region and in the Provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal from 24 March – 16 April 2021

    Chief Justice Peralta approves maintenance of a skeleton workforce of first and second level courts in the National Capital Judicial Region (NCJR), Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, sufficient to attend to all urgent mattes, from 24 March until 16 April 2021. OCA Circular No. 44-2021


    Department of Tourism

    DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM (DOT)

    18 October 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-007: Guidelines on Staycation Under the COVID-19 Pilot Alert Levels System

    DOT issues its guidelines on staycation under the COVID-19 pilot alert levels system, to spur economic recovery in the tourism sector, promote the vaccination of individuals, and ensure that health and safety protocols are complied with. Administrative Order No. 2021-007

    07 May 2021 – Administrative Order No. 2021-003: Guidelines on Point-to-Point Air Travel for Leisure Purposes from the NCR+ Area

    DOT issues its Point-to-Point Air Travel Guidelines, in line with the need to safely restart economic activities. Administrative Order No. 2021-003