Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 404)
The Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) is an agreement signed by the Government and the opposing parties on March 16, 1998, in The Hague to guarantee protection of human rights under all circumstances by addressing human rights violations and abuses and adherence to principles of international humanitarian law.
It establishes the Government of the Republic of the Philippines Monitoring Committee (GRP-MC) on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, composed of a Chairperson, two members, and two observers from human rights organizations, designated by the GRP Panel in peace negotiations with the CPP/NPA/NDF.
The GRP Panel which negotiated with the CPP/NPA/NDF supervises and provides overall management and operational support to the GRP-MC.
The GRP-MC represents the Government in the Joint Monitoring Committee, monitors the implementation status of CARHRIHL, works closely with the Commission on Human Rights, coordinates with government agencies and civil society, creates local monitoring teams if necessary, submits reports with recommendations, adopts implementing rules, and performs other assigned functions.
The GRP-MC provides the CHR with regular updates related to its work, assisting in the CHR's constitutional mandate to investigate human rights violations and monitor the Government's compliance with international human rights treaties.
All government agencies are directed to provide necessary cooperation and support to ensure timely and effective implementation of CARHRIHL provisions as facilitated by the GRP-MC.
The GRP Panel Secretariat, which includes representatives of government agencies designated by the GRP Panel, provides technical and administrative support, while the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) provides office space and facilities.
The Department of Budget and Management is directed to release Ten Million Pesos (₱10,000,000.00) from the President's Contingent Fund for the initial operational expenses, with succeeding funds to be included in the OPAPP budget.
The Executive Order took effect immediately upon its publication in a national newspaper of general circulation.