QuestionsQuestions (Republic Act No. 1619)
RA 1619 makes thirty-eight (38) years the maximum age limit for candidates for Foreign Service examinations by amending Section 2, Part B, Title III of RA 708.
Subsection (b), Section 2, Part B, Title III of Republic Act No. 708 (the Foreign Service Act of the Philippines) is amended.
Applicants must be between ages twenty-three (23) and thirty-eight (38), inclusive.
They must be physically fit and, based on the Board’s opinion, qualified to take the examinations by reason of academic training or practical experience, or both.
Such person is considered eligible if he falls within the age limit provided for in RA 1619.
A person holding a responsible position in the service of the Department or in the Foreign Service for at least two (2) years prior to the exam, who is physically fit and a degree holder requiring at least four academic years in any college recognized by the Government, may take the examinations regardless of the maximum age limit.
No. The law provides an exception for qualified persons holding responsible positions in the service for at least two years prior to the examination, meeting the physical fitness and degree requirements.
The candidate must be a degree holder requiring at least four academic years in any college recognized by the Government.
Foreign Affairs examinations are open only to Filipino citizens.
No person married to an alien may take these examinations without the written consent of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
The Board.
It takes effect upon its approval.
It indicates legislative intent to modify only the stated qualifications (especially age limits) under the original Foreign Service Act, without changing other provisions of RA 708.
It means that qualifying candidates meeting the specified service, physical fitness, and education requirements can take the examinations even if older than 38, notwithstanding the general age cap.
Yes. The minimum age is twenty-three (23) years old, inclusive, for applicants under the general rule.