House OKs on 2nd reading bill creating medical reserve corps for disasters, health emergencies

Image: INQUIRER.net/Marie Faro

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives approved on second reading the bill establishing a medical reserve corps (MRC) composed of licensed physicians, registered nurses, and other health professionals to help assist the national and local government in case of public health emergencies and war, among others.

During Monday’s session, the lower chamber approved House Bill No. 8999 or the “Medical Reserve Corps Act” through voice voting.

Under the measure, an MRC shall be established under the Department of Health (DOH) and shall be composed of licensed physicians, medical students who have completed their four years of medical course, graduates of medicine, registered nurses, and licensed allied health professionals who may be called upon to assist the national government, its agencies, and instrumentalities, and local government units (LGUs).

The bill likewise grants the President the power to mobilize the MRC nationwide in case of a declaration of a state of war, a state of lawless violence, or a state of calamity.

The measure also enlists the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to provide expertise on the organization of the MRC for efficient, effective, and swift deployment, as well as provide training to the recruits in disaster and emergency response.

The AFP shall also complement the MRC logistics and manpower for large-scale operations in times of disaster or other public health emergencies.

The bill still needs to be approved on the third reading to hurdle the House.

EDV