EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 259

: Only the President of the Philippines has the authority to approve official travel abroad under this order.
: Yes, it applies to the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines, its agencies and instrumentalities, as well as any government-owned or controlled institutions.
: Travel to foreign countries and the United States on official business or special assignments related to investigations or studies advantageous to the Philippine government are covered.
: The order allows exceptions only if otherwise provided by law.
: All executive orders or regulations inconsistent with Executive Order No. 259 are revoked.
: It took effect on March 12, 1940, the date it was signed.
: Manuel L. Quezon signed as President and Jorge B. Vargas signed as Secretary to the President.
: This requirement centralizes the approval process to ensure travel abroad aligns with government interests and to prevent unauthorized official missions.
: No penalties are explicitly mentioned in the text of the Executive Order provided.