Law Summary

Introduction

This Memorandum Order No. 267, issued on July 25, 2007, expresses the concurrence and ratification of the President of the Republic of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, regarding the deputation of law enforcement agencies as outlined in the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 8207. This is in connection with the plebiscite scheduled for July 14, 2007, to ratify the conversion of the Municipality of Guihulngan in the Province of Negros Oriental into a component city.

Concurrence with COMELEC Resolution No. 8207

• Legal Principle/Provision: The President concurs with COMELEC Resolution No. 8207, which deputizes specific law enforcement agencies to ensure the integrity of the upcoming plebiscite.
• Key Definitions:
  • Deputation: The act of authorizing law enforcement agencies to assist in the conduct of the plebiscite.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • The National Police Commission and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are to be involved in the security and order of the plebiscite.
• Relevant Timeframes:
  • The plebiscite is scheduled for July 14, 2007.
• Consequences: Non-compliance or failure to maintain order and security during the plebiscite could lead to legal and administrative repercussions for the involved agencies.

• The President's order is to ensure a free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible plebiscite. • The PNP and National Police Commission are mandated to coordinate with COMELEC.

Direction for Law Enforcement Agencies

• Legal Principle/Provision: Law enforcement agencies must cooperate with the Commission on Elections in fulfilling their duties.
• Key Definitions:
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Refers specifically to the National Police Commission and the Philippine National Police.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • Agencies are directed to work collaboratively with COMELEC during the plebiscite process.
• Relevant Timeframes: Immediate effectivity upon issuance of this Memorandum Order.
• Consequences: Failure to coordinate effectively may result in challenges to the plebiscite's legitimacy.

• The Memorandum Order is effective immediately as of July 25, 2007. • Agencies are tasked with ensuring compliance and support for the plebiscite's conduct.

Conclusion

This Memorandum Order emphasizes the critical role of law enforcement in ensuring the integrity of the plebiscite on July 14, 2007, aimed at converting Guihulngan into a city, as mandated by Republic Act No. 9409.

Key Takeaways

• The President has officially concurred with COMELEC Resolution No. 8207 for the plebiscite in Guihulngan.
• Law enforcement agencies, specifically the PNP, are tasked with ensuring the plebiscite's integrity and are required to cooperate with COMELEC.
• The order takes effect immediately, emphasizing the urgency of preparations for the upcoming plebiscite.