Question & AnswerQ&A (OP EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 343)
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is a government agency mandated to formulate policies for the promotion of the welfare of Filipinos overseas. It was created by virtue of Batas Pambansa Blg. 79 (s. 1980).
The CFO was amended by Executive Order No. 708 (s. 1981), Executive Order No. 728 (s. 1981), and Executive Order No. 346 (s. 1996).
Before the transfer, the CFO was an agency attached to the Department of Foreign Affairs under Republic Act No. 8042 (s. 1996).
The transfer is intended to effectively oversee and supervise the government's efforts towards strengthening the protection of overseas Filipino workers and Filipinos overseas.
Under Section 31, Chapter 10, Title III, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987, the President has continuing authority to recognize and alter the administrative structure of the Office of the President.
Executive Order No. 343 took effect immediately upon its issuance on August 5, 2004.
The government aims to protect Filipinos overseas from the abuses of domestic recruiters, overseas employers, agents, officials, and physical harm.
The repealing clause repeals, amends, or modifies all executive issuances, rules, and regulations inconsistent with the provisions of EO No. 343.
Executive Order No. 343 was adopted by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and signed by Executive Secretary Alberto G. Romulo.
The CFO is mandated to formulate general policies for promoting the welfare of Filipinos overseas and provide the functional direction for its programs and operations.