Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 559)
All officials and employees in the government, both national and local, including those in government-owned or controlled corporations, are required to comply.
Official travel abroad is allowed only if the trip (a) will not involve government funds; (b) is for complying with an international commitment of the Philippine Government; (c) would directly benefit the country financially; or (d) is related to a scholarship, fellowship, or training/study grant.
No, approval does not automatically follow even if a trip falls under the exceptions. The Office of the President evaluates various factors, including expenditure, number of personnel, and public benefit before approval.
They are enjoined to recommend only urgent and extremely necessary trips that involve minimum expenditure and personnel and are expected to bring immediate benefit to the country.
They must obtain prior approval from the Office of the President before committing the government to such travel.
Proposals must be submitted for consideration at least ten (10) days before the expected date of departure.
The proposal must include: (a) Certificate of urgency signed by the concerned Minister or head; (b) Travel Data Sheet and, if applicable, Training/Scholarship Agreement; (c) Estimate of total financial requirements if government funded; (d) Certification from the President's Center for Special Studies that the official has attended the required orientation course/seminar.
No, the piecemeal system of submitting requests after approval for side-trips or additional expenses is prohibited.
Any violation shall subject the official or employee concerned to disciplinary action.
Existing rules on foreign travel, including limitations on representation expenses and submission of reports as prescribed in Executive Order No. 129, must be strictly enforced.
No, any invitation for the sending abroad of government personnel must first be forwarded to the Office of the President for approval.