Law Summary
Government Neutrality with Respect to Religion
- The government maintains neutrality toward all religious communities.
- The State can pursue secular objectives even if they incidentally affect a particular religion or sect.
Constitutional Mandate on Ethical and Spiritual Values
- The 1987 Constitution directs the government to support efforts aimed at strengthening ethical and spiritual values.
- It emphasizes the development of moral character among Filipinos.
Historical Influence of the Bible
- The Bible has significantly impacted the lives of nations and inspired various leaders and reformers.
- It has motivated efforts aimed at the betterment of society, often at great personal sacrifice.
Purpose of Focusing on the Bible
- National attention is encouraged on the importance of reading and studying the Bible.
- This focus is intended to help mold the spiritual, moral, and social fiber of the citizenry.
Declaration of National Bible Month and Week
- January of every year is declared as National Bible Month.
- The last week of January is designated as National Bible Week.
- This declaration is an exercise of the President's powers vested by law.
Formalization and Authority
- The proclamation was signed in Manila on January 5, 2017.
- It was issued by the President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
- The Executive Secretary countersigned the proclamation, formalizing it.
Key Legal Concepts
- State recognition and encouragement of religious values without breaching constitutional secularism.
- The balancing act between government neutrality and the promotion of moral and spiritual development.
- Use of presidential proclamation to institutionalize observance of a religiously-influenced cultural month and week.
Scope and Effect
- Applies nationwide to all Filipinos and institutions.
- Intended to promote reading and study of the Bible as a means of ethical and moral development.
- No penalties or sanctions are prescribed; the proclamation serves as a national observance guideline.