Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a state of national calamity in the country in an attempt to contain the coronavirus outbreak.
It will be for a period of six months "unless earlier lifted or extended as circumstances may warrant".
A proclamation signed by Duterte said it would provide the national and local government units to access appropriate funds to carry out relief and response operations.
Duterte also ordered all law enforcement agencies in the country to undertake necessary measures to ensure peace and order in affected areas
It will also put in place a price freeze on basic commodities.
So far, the country has registered 187 cases, including 12 deaths and four recoveries.
Trump says Iran war deal close as Strait of Hormuz tensions linger
Victims' families mark Air India crash anniversary with prayers and tributes
Ebola outbreak spreads to crowded displacement camp in Congo
Fire breaks out at New Zealand's Wellington airport, disrupting flights
Ukraine and Russia trade overnight drone strikes, officials say
UN says Taliban arrest 30 women for violating hijab rules in Afghanistan
Trump cancels US strikes on Iran, citing progress in talks
South Korea court sentences ex-President Yoon to 30-year jail term in drone case
