Title
Creation of Bureau of Investigation
Law
Republic Act No. 157
Decision Date
Jun 19, 1947
Republic Act No. 157 established the Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines, granting it the authority to conduct criminal investigations, provide assistance to law enforcement, and maintain a scientific crime laboratory, among other functions.
A

Leadership and Appointment

  • Heads the Bureau with a Director appointed by the President with the Commission on Appointments' consent.
  • The Director receives an annual salary of seven thousand two hundred pesos.

Personnel Composition and Transfer

  • The Director determines the size and composition of the Bureau's personnel.
  • Existing personnel from the Division of Investigation transfer to the Bureau, forming its core.

Appointment and Promotion Criteria

  • Appointments based strictly on merit and fitness; competitive mental and physical examinations are utilized.
  • Adequate instruction and training must precede appointments.
  • Promotions consider seniority and efficiency records.
  • Investigative personnel should preferably be law school graduates, members of the bar, certified public accountants, or experienced law enforcement officials.

Powers and Authority of Investigation Staff

  • Members are peace officers with authority to make arrests, searches, and seizures in compliance with law.
  • Empowered to issue subpoenas or subpoenas duces tecum for appearances at government expense.
  • Can administer oaths and obtain sworn truthful statements subject to constitutional limits.
  • Authorized to carry firearms for personal and witness protection without needing prior special permits.
  • Granted access to all public records and, via presidential visitorial power, to private records.

Abolition of the Division of Investigation

  • Officially abolishes the Division of Investigation of the Department of Justice.

Transfer of Assets

  • Transfers all unexpended funds, supplies, materials, and scientific equipment from the Division of Investigation to the Bureau.

Appropriations

  • Appropriates an additional five hundred thousand pesos from the National Treasury.
  • Funds designated for salaries, expenses, supplies, materials, and equipment.

Repealing Clause

  • Repeals Commonwealth Act No. 181 and any other inconsistent laws or provisions.

Effectivity

  • The Act takes effect immediately upon approval on June 19, 1947.

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