QuestionsQuestions (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 37)
The main purpose of Executive Order No. 37 is to approve and adopt the National Security Policy (NSP) 2023-2028 in order to guide and improve security sector governance and address national security challenges in a comprehensive manner.
Section 7, Article II of the 1987 Constitution declares the State policy to pursue an independent foreign policy considering national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest, and the right to self-determination as paramount.
All national government agencies (NGAs) and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), and local government units (LGUs) are mandated to adopt the NSP 2023-2028 in formulating and implementing their security-related strategies and programs.
The National Security Adviser (NSA) is tasked to conduct periodic assessments, monitor implementation, and submit reports to the President and the National Security Council (NSC) on the NSP 2023-2028.
The NSC Secretariat is responsible for providing technical assistance and support to agencies and other government entities in the formulation of policies and strategies that affect national security.
Funding for this Order shall be charged against current and available appropriations of concerned agencies, subject to budgeting, accounting, and auditing laws. Future funding requirements will be included in the General Appropriations Act through the usual budget process.
The separability clause in Section 7 provides that if any part of the Order is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
All NGAs, instrumentalities, GOCCs, and LGUs are encouraged to engage all sectors of society to participate in the implementation of the NSP 2023-2028 to achieve a holistic approach in addressing national security issues within their mandates and jurisdictions.
The Order takes effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.