EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 178

: The purpose is to prescribe the rules of procedure, including modes of proof, in cases before military tribunals such as courts-martial, courts of inquiry, and military commissions in the Army of the Philippines.
: The rules prescribed are known and designated as the Manual for Courts-Martial, Philippine Army.
: They took effect on December 17, 1938.
: They apply to cases before courts-martial, courts of inquiry, military commissions, and other military tribunals of the Army of the Philippines.
: Commonwealth Act No. 408 establishes the system of military justice for persons subject to military law, giving legal basis for prescribing military judicial procedures through the executive order.
: The President of the Philippines was authorized to promulgate the manual under the authority of Commonwealth Act No. 408.
: Jorge B. Vargas signed as the Secretary to the President, attesting to the authenticity and publication of the executive order.