Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 335)
The 1987 Constitution of the Philippines provides that the national language is Filipino, and it shall be further developed and enriched based on existing Philippine and other languages. It also states that the official languages for communication and instruction are Filipino and, until otherwise provided by law, English.
Government offices must take steps to enhance the use of Filipino in all official communications, assign personnel to handle Filipino communications, translate names of offices and signboards into Filipino, Filipinize the Oath of Office, and include Filipino proficiency in personnel training programs.
The Institute of Philippine Languages is ordered to formulate and implement programs and projects to support the use of Filipino in official government communications.
The Institute must conduct information campaigns on the importance of Filipino, translate the Executive Order and government terms into Filipino, train government officials and personnel in Filipino, monitor implementation, submit progress reports, and explore other strategies for full implementation.
Yes, EO No. 335 applies to all government offices, whether national or local, requiring them to enhance the use of Filipino in official transactions and communications.
EO No. 335 requires the Oath of Office for government officials and personnel to be Filipinized, meaning it should be administered in the Filipino language.
EO No. 335 mandates translation of names of offices, buildings, public offices, and signboards into Filipino, with an option to include the English text in smaller letters below.
The Office of the President of the Philippines receives periodic progress reports on EO No. 335 through the Department of Education, Culture and Sports.
Yes, EO No. 335 supersedes Executive Order No. 187 dated August 6, 1969.