Question & AnswerQ&A (BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 79)
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas, created under the Office of the President.
The Commission is composed of five (5) members appointed by the President, including one ex-officio member who is the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs as ex-officio member and other ministers appointed by the President as ex-officio members.
Filipinos Overseas are Filipinos who are permanent residents abroad, including Filipino emigrants who are either already citizens of foreign countries or are still Filipino citizens awaiting naturalization, recognition, or admission, and their descendants.
To provide advice and assistance to the President and Batasang Pambansa on policies affecting Filipinos overseas; to formulate and coordinate welfare programs for Filipinos overseas; undertake special projects to promote their welfare; preserve social, economic, and cultural ties; provide liaison services; promulgate rules and regulations; and perform other related functions.
Yes, the Commission can establish offices abroad or appoint service attaches or designate representatives from among resident Filipinos abroad, subject to the approval of the President.
The Office of Emigrant Affairs in the Ministry of Labor and Employment is abolished, and its functions, funds, records, property, equipment, and personnel are transferred to the Commission.
Ex-officio members receive per diems for meetings attended, not exceeding 250 pesos per meeting and 1,000 pesos a month. Other members and employees are compensated according to Presidential Decrees 985 and 1285.
Appropriations authorized under Batas Pambansa Blg. 40 for the Office of Emigrant Affairs are used for the Commission's operational expenses, and subsequent appropriations will be included in the General Appropriations Act.
The Act took effect upon its approval on June 16, 1980.