Question & AnswerQ&A (MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 68)
The purpose of Memorandum Circular No. 68 is to ensure efficiency in the processing of requests for Presidential issuances and/or approvals by requiring complete staff work before submission to the Office of the President.
The types of Presidential issuances covered include executive orders, proclamations, administrative orders, memorandum orders, memorandum circulars, and similar directives.
Complete staff work means that the request must be thoroughly prepared and substantiated with all necessary documents and data before submission, including necessary justifications, legal basis, coordination, certifications, and draft documents.
The covering Memorandum must not exceed two pages and include: justification, legal basis, agencies involved, coordination with agencies, potential problems, fund availability certification (if necessary), and a draft action document.
The 'Justification' section should explain the economic, administrative, or other reasons for the requested issuance or approval.
A statement citing the legal authority or basis for the requested issuance or approval must be provided in the 'Legal Basis' section.
Enumerating the agencies involved or affected helps identify who may have jurisdictional or operational interest in the issuance and ensures proper coordination and consultation.
The request must include a statement confirming that necessary coordination or consultations were made with the concerned agencies, including signed comments or recommendations from their respective Department Secretaries or Heads.
The 'Potential Problems' section should identify any risks, problems, or complications that may arise from the issuance or approval requested.
A certification from the requesting agency's budget or finance officer that funds are available is required if the issuance or approval involves funding.
Non-compliant requests may be returned to the requesting Department, Agency, or Official for completion of the necessary staff work before resubmission.