Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 608)
The purpose of Executive Order No. 608 is to establish a national security clearance system for government personnel with access to classified matters to protect national interest and ensure the integrity of classified information.
They must implement the security clearance procedure, designate a Security Officer to maintain the system, issue necessary certifications, maintain a Security Investigation Index, and ensure the non-disclosure of classified information by cleared personnel.
The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) is responsible for conducting further background investigations for personnel with Interim Security Clearances, especially those with access to materials classified as Secret and above.
NICA forwards its recommendations for the issuance or non-issuance of Security Clearances to the Office of the National Security Adviser/Director (ONSA/ONSD) for approval.
Unauthorized disclosure, sharing, or use of classified information is considered a grave offense and punishable under civil service rules and regulations, and it does not preclude the filing of appropriate criminal or civil cases.
A party may file an appeal to the Office of the President in accordance with the law.
A Security Investigation Index must be maintained for all personnel granted Interim Security Clearances, including investigation dates, types, locations, clearance dates, authorities’ signatures, and the level of classified access authorized.