Law Summary

Introduction

This Executive Order, issued by President Corazon C. Aquino on November 3, 1989, addresses the complex issue of foreign military bases in the Philippines, particularly in light of the impending expiration of the Philippines-United States Military Bases Agreement in 1991. The Order creates a dedicated committee to coordinate government actions and responses related to this issue.

Creation of the Committee

• Provision: Establishment of the President's Committee on the Bases.
• Composition: The Committee comprises several key government officials, including:
  • Hon. Catalino Macaraig, Jr. (Chairman)
  • Hon. Alfredo R. A. Bengzon (Vice-Chairman)
  • Additional members include notable figures such as Hon. Fidel V. Ramos and Hon. Franklin M. Drilon among others.

Functions of the Committee

• Purpose: The Committee is tasked with coordinating the government's response to the bases issue with regard to national interest.
• Key Functions:
  • Plan a comprehensive action response to the bases issue.
  • Facilitate the collection of views from Congress, affected communities, and other stakeholders.
  • Review and implement recommendations from the Legislative Executive Bases Council.
  • Prepare for the implementation of decisions from exploratory talks.
  • Undertake additional functions as assigned by the President.

Secretariat

• Provision: The Office of the Peace Commissioner is designated as the Secretariat for the Committee.

Budgetary Provisions

• Funding: The Office of the President is responsible for allocating necessary funds for the Committee’s operations.
• Regulation: Expenditures must comply with standard accounting and auditing rules.

Effectivity

• Effective Date: This Executive Order is effective immediately upon issuance.

Cross-References

• Constitutional Basis: The Order references Article XVIII, Section 25 of the Philippine Constitution regarding the future of foreign military bases in the Philippines post-1991.

Key Takeaways

• The Executive Order establishes a committee specifically focused on the critical issue of foreign military bases in the Philippines.
• The Committee is composed of prominent government officials and is tasked with a comprehensive approach to address various aspects of the bases issue.
• The Secretariat and budgetary provisions ensure the Committee has the necessary support to function effectively.
• The immediate effectivity of the Order underscores the urgency of addressing the bases issue in light of national sovereignty and interests.