Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 23)
The Secretary of National Defense is responsible for ensuring that an effective and well-coordinated system of security is provided to the persons and properties of foreign diplomatic, consular, and international officials in the Philippines when such security is requested.
The request for security protection must first be made by the head of the foreign diplomatic mission, consular establishment, or international agency concerned to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs notifies the appropriate City or Municipal Mayor and the Secretary of National Defense without delay regarding the request for security protection.
The City or Municipal Mayor is responsible for providing the necessary protective measures desired by the foreign or international mission. If the required security is beyond the local police force's capabilities, the Mayor must request additional support from the Department of National Defense or the nearest Philippine Constabulary Command.
The Department of National Defense can augment local police forces when the security protection sought is beyond the capabilities of the local police, and after monitoring and evaluation of the requests for security protection.
The Secretary of National Defense may call upon the Department of Foreign Affairs, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, local police forces, and other government agencies as necessary.
The guidelines include maximum coordination and cooperation in planning and execution phases, provision of necessary logistics and support by the agencies, prompt action in emergencies, adherence to international rules and norms of courtesy and decorum, and prohibition against solicitation or acceptance of any compensation or favors from those provided security.
Any person who violates the international rules, norms of courtesy and conduct, or provisions of the Order, or those who solicit or receive compensation or benefits from protected persons, shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided by law.
Gifts, commendations, or tokens of gratitude offered voluntarily by those protected shall be referred to and properly disposed of by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.