Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 57)
The Council is composed of the Chairman of the National Economic Council (as Chairman), the Executive Secretary, Secretaries of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health, Education, Public Works and Communications, National Defense, the Social Welfare Administrator, and three private citizens appointed by the President.
The Chairman presides at the meetings of the Council. In the Chairman's absence, the ranking Secretary of Department present presides, or the Chairman may designate a representative to attend meetings.
Yes, each Secretary or Head of Department who is an ex-officio member may designate a representative to attend meetings in their absence.
Key functions include formulating plans to improve rural economy, health, community organization, youth development, promoting self-help, coordinating government agencies' rural projects, bringing government and civic facilities into play, recommending rural legislation, promoting local community councils, submitting reports, administering funds, and organizing administrative machinery.
The Council coordinates its activities with the National Economic Council’s nation-wide development program and solicits its advice on policy, planning, programming, and financing matters.
Yes, the Council is authorized to create local councils to assist in performing its functions and may adopt rules and regulations necessary to carry out this Order.
The Council may secure the services of officers and employees from any government department, bureau, office, agency, or government-controlled corporations as needed to accomplish its task.
The Council is authorized to administer wisely and judiciously the funds assigned to it by the President.
The Council must submit annual reports of its activities or any other reports required by the President from time to time.