Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9)
The main purpose is to authorize the President of the Philippines to enter into agreements with the United States government pursuant to U.S. Public Act No. 454, the Republic of the Philippines Military Assistance Act, to receive military assistance and to issue rules for implementation and penalties for violations.
The President of the Philippines is authorized to enter into agreements with the United States President or its agencies regarding military assistance.
Military assistance includes the transfer of property and information, technical advice, and lending of personnel for training the Philippine armed forces.
The President is authorized to issue rules and regulations necessary to implement the Act and ensure the security of any received articles, plans, or information.
They may be punished under the Articles of War, Espionage Law, or by imprisonment of up to ten years or a fine of up to ten thousand pesos, or both, whichever penalty is higher.
Commonwealth Act No. 408 (Articles of War) and Commonwealth Act No. 616 (Espionage Law) are referenced.
U.S. Public Act No. 454 is the basis for the military assistance being extended to the Philippines, which this Act implements locally.
It took effect upon its approval on September 2, 1946.
Such property and information must only be used for the purposes set forth in U.S. Public Act No. 454 and must be kept secure according to rules issued by the President.
It is justified as being in the joint interest of the United States and the Philippines for common defense and world peace and security.