Law Summary
Objectives of the PNVSCA
- Formulate policies and guidelines for volunteer service plans and programs.
- Coordinate volunteer programs of domestic and foreign governmental and private voluntary organizations to align with national development goals.
- Act as a clearinghouse for matters related to volunteer service.
- Organize and implement national volunteer service programs to provide opportunities for youth and adults to contribute talent and skills.
- Serve as liaison between domestic and foreign volunteer organizations, including the United Nations Volunteer Program under UNDP.
- Promote and strengthen volunteer service via conferences, seminars, trainings, and related activities.
- Administer funds from all sources including foreign aid, and receive gifts, donations, and subventions.
- Perform any other functions as provided by law.
Organizational Structure
- Agency is headed by a Director supported by professional staff and employees.
- Appointments are subject to Civil Service laws and rules.
Duties and Functions of the Director
- Implement volunteer service plans and programs.
- Advise and assist the Presidential Executive Assistant on volunteer service matters.
- Provide consultative and advisory services to government and private agencies.
- Develop plans, standards, and techniques to promote the Agency's objectives.
- Perform additional functions assigned by the Presidential Executive Assistant related to volunteer services.
Creation and Composition of Multi-Sectoral Advisory Body
- A multi-sectoral advisory body is established to encourage participation of government, non-government, interfaith groups, private/civic organizations, and international bodies.
- The Advisory Body is chaired by the Director of PNVSCA.
Functions of the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Body
- Assist in policy, plan, and program formulation for volunteer services.
- Provide consultative and technical advice on volunteer matters.
- Strengthen links among volunteer groups and client communities.
Definitions
- Volunteer Service Organization: Domestic or foreign groups organized and trained to implement volunteer service programs.
- Volunteer Service Program: Volunteer service planned by such organizations.
Admission of Foreign Volunteer Service Workers
- Foreign volunteer service workers may only be admitted if the sending country or organization has an agreement with the Philippine government.
Registration Requirements
- All volunteer organizations and workers must register with PNVSCA before performing service.
- Existing volunteer service entities must register within 30 days of the Order’s effectivity.
Registration Form Contents
- Personal or organizational details including name, age, citizenship, business, residence.
- For corporations or associations, certified organizational documents must be submitted.
- For foreign volunteers, details include affiliated organization, passport and visa numbers.
- Copies of contracts or full statements of terms and conditions of volunteer service must be provided.
- Detailed description of activities to be performed.
- Other documents as required by the Director.
Visa Status Change Prohibition
- Foreign visitors in the Philippines are not permitted to apply for change of visa status to engage in volunteer service.
Prohibited Acts for Foreign Volunteer Workers
- No acceptance of other remunerative employment during assignment.
- No political contributions or participation in political activities.
- No solicitation of contributions.
- Compliance with PNVSCA rules and regulations is mandatory.
Penalties for Violations
- Foreign volunteers violating prohibitions will face visa cancellation and passport confiscation.
- Domestic volunteers facing violations are subject to domestic court charges.
Rulemaking Authority
- The Director has authority to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the Order.
- Such rules take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette.