Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 64)
The purpose of Executive Order No. 64 is to establish a National War Crimes Office in the Philippines responsible for collecting, recording, and evaluating evidence of war crimes and atrocities committed during the Japanese occupation, and to facilitate the speedy and just punishment of the perpetrators.
The National War Crimes Office is established within the Judge Advocate General Service of the Philippine Army and functions under the direction of the Judge Advocate General.
Its responsibilities include collecting evidence of war crimes and atrocities against persons and property within the Philippines since the commencement of hostilities by Japan in December 1941, maintaining records, evaluating evidence, and cooperating with the United States National War Crimes Office and the United Nations War Crimes Commission to bring guilty persons to trial.
The Office addresses atrocities, crimes, and offenses contrary to the laws and customs of war and principles of common humanity committed during the Japanese occupation, including cruelties, acts of oppression, and wanton destruction against people and property.
The Declaration of Moscow on Atrocities issued in the name of President Roosevelt, Prime Minister Churchill, and Premier Stalin on November 1, 1943, supports the policy that perpetrators of such atrocities be brought to justice.
They are to work jointly, exchanging information and evidence, cooperating in the apprehension and trial of war criminals.
The atrocities and offenses committed by Japanese forces during their occupation of the Philippines starting December 7, 1941, including crimes against humanity and war crimes during World War II.
The Office is to maintain direct liaison, exchange information and evidence, and cooperate in apprehending and trying war criminals.