Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 777)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 777 is to authorize officers and enlisted men of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to accept awards, decorations, or citations conferred by the government of any member nation of the United Nations Organization for meritorious or outstanding military service.
Officers and enlisted men of the Philippine Expeditionary Force as provided for in Republic Act No. 573 are the beneficiaries authorized to accept foreign military awards under this Act.
Awards, decorations, or citations may be accepted if they are conferred by or under the authority of the government of any member nation of the United Nations Organization on account of meritorious or outstanding performance of military duty in the service of the United Nations.
Yes, the law authorizes recipients to wear the medal, ribbon, bar, or other device signifying the award, decoration, or citation.
Yes, an individual who has ceased to be a member of the Philippine Expeditionary Force or is no longer serving with United Nations forces may still accept a foreign award, provided the act or service justifying the award was performed during their UN service.
If the individual dies before accepting the foreign award, it may be accepted on their behalf by any of their legal heirs.
No, the Act does not specify any penalties for unauthorized acceptance; it solely focuses on authorizing acceptance of awards under stated conditions.
This Act took effect upon its approval on June 21, 1952.
The Philippine Expeditionary Force, as provided for under Republic Act Numbered 573, is covered under Republic Act No. 777.
The acceptance of awards includes those conferred by or under the authority of the government of any of the member nations of the United Nations Organization, not just the Philippine government.