Law Summary
Composition and Leadership of the PCC
- The PCC includes permanent representatives from key Philippine government agencies such as DFA, DTI, DA, DBM, DECS, DOE, DENR, DOF, DOH, DOJ, DOLE, DPWH, DOST, DOT, DOTC, NEDA, BSP, and SEC.
- Representatives must hold a rank not lower than Director.
- Additional agencies may be invited as necessary.
- Co-chaired by the DFA Undersecretary for International Economic Relations and the DTI Undersecretary for International Trade.
- The DTI Undersecretary primarily convenes and conducts PCC meetings. The DFA Undersecretary may convene in the absence of the DTI counterpart.
Functions of the PCC
- Participate in meetings, consultations, and negotiations with Japanese counterparts regarding JPEPA.
- Formulate recommended Philippine positions for discussions with Japan.
- Conduct consultations with government and private sectors on issues relevant to JPEPA.
- Draft a proposed framework for JPEPA and its Implementing Agreements (IAs).
- Undertake other related functions as necessary to facilitate the agreement process.
Secretariat and Coordination Roles
- The Bureau of International Trade Relations (BITR) of the DTI serves as the PCC Secretariat, managing and coordinating the committee's work.
- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) coordinates directly with the Japanese counterpart PCC.
Drafting Framework and Consultancy Services
- The DTI is responsible for preparing the final draft framework of JPEPA and its Implementing Agreements based on PCC work.
- It may commission consultants or related services as needed, following existing rules and regulations.
Budget and Financial Provisions
- Individual member agencies bear their own expenses related to PCC functions, particularly travel and participation in meetings in Japan.
- The DTI will submit a work program and budget proposal to the Department of Budget and Management to cover activities undertaken by the PCC.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes immediate effect upon issuance.