Authority and Issuance
- The proclamation is issued by the President of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
- The declaration is made pursuant to the powers vested in the President by law.
Observance and Flag Protocol
- On the declared day, all government buildings and installations nationwide are required to fly the Philippine flag at half-mast.
- Filipino citizens are encouraged to also lower the flag to half-mast at their workplaces and residences as a sign of mourning and respect.
Legal and Formal Execution
- The proclamation is formally signed by the President and attested by the Executive Secretary.
- The document is dated August 20, 2003, issued from Manila, the capital of the Philippines.