Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 289)
The primary purpose is to provide for the construction of a National Pantheon for the burial of Presidents of the Philippines, national heroes, and patriots of the country to perpetuate their memory for inspiration and emulation.
The Board is composed of the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Public Works and Communications, the Secretary of Education, and two private citizens appointed by the President with the consent of the Commission on Appointments.
The Board's duties include determining and acquiring a suitable site, supervising construction of monuments and mausoleums, interring the remains of Presidents and national heroes, constructing access roads, and performing other necessary functions to fulfill the Act's purpose.
The Act appropriates one million pesos from the National Treasury for initial expenses, and authorizes the Board to open a popular subscription to raise additional funds until December 31, 1950.
Yes, the Board is authorized to appoint an executive secretary, auditor, and other necessary personnel, fixing their compensation.
The Act requires the Board to select and acquire a suitable site which shall be fenced and divided into portions: one for the remains of Presidents and another for heroes, patriots, and other great men of the country.
The mortal remains of all Presidents of the Philippines, national heroes, and patriots are to be interred there.
Appointments are made by the President of the Philippines with the consent of the Commission on Appointments.
The Board may raise funds by popular subscription within a certain period to finance construction and other expenses necessary for the Pantheon.
The Act took effect upon its approval on June 16, 1948.