Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 161)
Executive Order No. 161 extends the term of Executive Order No. 371, which proclaims a Special Zone of Peace and Development (SZOPAD) in the Southern Philippines and establishes the Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development (SPCPD) and the Consultative Assembly (CA).
The extension aligns with Republic Act 8753's postponement of ARMM regular elections, allowing the government to complete the implementation of Phase 1 of the 1996 GRP-MNLF Peace Agreement and promoting socio-economic development programs in SZOPAD, including ARMM provinces.
The term of EO No. 371, including the SZOPAD, SPCPD, and CA, is extended for one year corresponding to the election postponement period covered by RA 8753.
SPCPD is tasked with supervising offices and projects within SZOPAD, such as the Southern Philippines Development Authority, Office of Muslim Affairs, and National Commission on Indigenous People, and overseeing the Basilan, Central Mindanao, and Sulu Development Task Forces.
No, EO No. 161 explicitly states that it does not affect the existence or diminish the powers and functions of local government units within SZOPAD, including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Funding for SPCPD and the Consultative Assembly shall come from the Office of the President and other sources as recommended by the Department of Budget and Management.
EO No. 161 takes effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two newspapers of national circulation.
The Consultative Assembly continues to function as established in EO No. 371, supporting the peace and development efforts within the SZOPAD along with SPCPD.
The 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement is referenced, which guides the tasks of the SPCPD and the development efforts within SZOPAD.