Functions and Responsibilities of the Department
- The DFA is responsible for coordinating and executing the foreign policies of the Republic of the Philippines.
- It conducts the foreign relations of the country.
- The Department may perform additional functions related to foreign relations as assigned by law or by the President.
Organization and Administration of the Department
- The President is authorized to organize and operate the DFA and the Philippine foreign service via executive order.
- Funding for the DFA operations comes from appropriations provided by law.
- The President may fix emoluments, privileges, and allowances for DFA officers and employees.
- Upon the effectivity of the Act, the existing Office of Foreign Relations (established under Commonwealth Act No. 683) and the Office of the Resident Commissioner to the U.S. are abolished.
- All their properties, equipment, supplies, records, and funds are transferred to the DFA.
Effectivity of the Act
- The Act takes effect on July 4, 1946.
Important Legal Concepts
- The Act consolidates foreign affairs functions under a single department for efficiency and coherence in foreign relations.
- It vests regulatory and administrative authority in the President to ensure the Department’s organization and operation.
- The transfer of assets and functions from prior offices ensures continuity in foreign service operations.