Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 162)
The main purpose of Executive Order No. 162 is to reorient the functions and operations of the Department of Agriculture consistent with the principles, goals, and objectives of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 (AFMA) to modernize Philippine agriculture and fisheries.
The Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 (AFMA) mandates the Department of Agriculture to lead the inter-departmental efforts to modernize Philippine agriculture and fisheries.
The key focus areas include productivity-enhancing programs such as research, development and extension; irrigation and water management; product standards and food safety enforcement; and credit, marketing, information, and communication support services.
Local government units are considered major partners in agricultural development and modernization, especially in the implementation of devolved agricultural planning and extension activities.
Under Section 77 of RA 8745 (FY 1999 General Appropriations Act), the President may direct changes in the organization and key positions in any department, bureau, or agency, including scaling down or abolition of non-essential activities to ensure efficient governance.
The Secretary of Agriculture must review the Department’s structure, operational processes, and systems, and may group or merge agencies, institutionalize partnerships with LGUs, strengthen regional units, improve transparency, and adopt necessary operational or structural adjustments.
The ABRP is a comprehensive plan prepared by the Department of Agriculture that includes new policies, structural and staffing modifications, and budget realignments to implement the functional reorientation of the Department in line with AFMA.
No, no personnel shall be laid off or dismissed as a result of the implementation of this Executive Order. However, those who voluntarily opt for separation are entitled to separation benefits as provided by law or equitable compensation if not covered by existing laws.
Yes, personnel may be redeployed according to the revised organizational structure and staffing pattern, but such redeployment shall not result in diminution of rank or compensation, and must comply with civil service rules.
Savings generated from the realignment can be used for early retirement programs, salary upgrades for meritorious employees, education and training of personnel, provision of fellowships, and the upgrading of facilities within the Department.
The Secretary is assisted by top-level management, including management and technical experts from outside the Department, as well as representation from the employees' association of the Department.
The Executive Order took effect immediately on October 16, 1999, the date it was signed.