QuestionsQuestions (OP Administrative Order No. 5, s. 2010)
It adopts and directs the use of the ISO country codes for the Philippines—specifically PH (alpha-2) and PHL (alpha-3)—to avoid ambiguity caused by the non-ISO use of “RP.”
The ISO alpha-2 code PH and the ISO alpha-3 code PHL.
ISO 3166-1 is the ISO standard that assigns country codes, including two-letter (alpha-2) and three-letter (alpha-3) codes to member countries.
It states that referring to the Philippines using the initials “RP” is not in accordance with ISO 3166-1, leading to ambiguity and confusion.
It notes that the DFA adopted and reflected the ISO three-letter code “PHL” in the data page of the electronic passport.
They must adopt and use the ISO codes PH or PHL “as soon as practicable” when referring to the Philippines.
The Order requires adoption and use “as soon as practicable,” implying compliance within a reasonable timeframe based on feasibility.
To support the legitimacy and appropriateness of adopting ISO country codes assigned to the Philippines by ISO 3166-1.
It cites their use in international events and conferences, sports meets, airline ticketing, and similar contexts abroad and in the Philippines.
It transitions from recitals/justifications to the binding operative directive—here, the Presidential instruction to adopt and use ISO codes.
The Order states that the President acts “by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution.” (The text does not specify the exact article/section.)
It asserts that since ISO codes are used internationally, Philippine government usage should align with ISO 3166-1 to reduce confusion and promote consistency.
Yes, because the Order directs all offices, agencies, and instrumentalities to adopt and use ISO codes PH or PHL as soon as practicable when referring to the Philippines.
PH is the ISO two-letter code (alpha-2), and PHL is the ISO three-letter code (alpha-3) for the Philippines.