Title
Security for Foreign Diplomatic Missions
Law
Executive Order No. 23
Decision Date
Apr 25, 1966
Ferdinand E. Marcos establishes a coordinated security system for foreign diplomatic missions and international officials in the Philippines, assigning the Secretary of National Defense to oversee protective measures and ensure the safety of their premises and personnel.
A

Objective of Security Provision

  • To safeguard the lives, offices, and property of foreign and international officials and their families.
  • To enhance the Republic's prestige by providing protection with utmost efficiency and decorum.

Procedure for Requesting Security

  • Security requests must originate from the head of the foreign diplomatic mission, consular establishment, or international agency.
  • Requests are first made to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, who promptly notifies the appropriate City or Municipal Mayor and the Secretary of National Defense.

Role of Local Government and Police

  • City or Municipal Mayors are responsible for providing requested protective measures.
  • If local police resources are insufficient, additional support may be requested from the Department of National Defense or the nearest Philippine Constabulary Command.

Oversight by the Department of National Defense

  • The Secretary of National Defense monitors, evaluates, and is prepared to augment local police forces to ensure adequate protection.
  • All security actions are conducted under the supervision of the Department of National Defense.

Inter-Agency Coordination and Support

  • The Secretary of National Defense may coordinate and demand assistance from various government agencies, including local police, Department of Foreign Affairs, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and National Bureau of Investigation.
  • Agencies must cooperate according to prescribed regulations and are directed to render support within their capacities.

Guidelines Governing Participating Agencies

  1. Maximum coordination and cooperation in planning and execution phases.
  2. Agencies provide logistics and support for their personnel, with possible additional funding recommended by the Secretary of National Defense and provided by the Office of the President.
  3. In emergencies, local police or government agencies must act immediately within their capability and notify the Secretaries of National Defense and Foreign Affairs.
  4. Personnel violating international norms of courtesy, decorum, or provisions of the Order face disciplinary actions per law.
  5. Officials or employees soliciting or receiving benefits from those under protection are subject to disciplinary measures; voluntary gifts are to be properly handled by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.

Disciplinary Provisions

  • Violations of conduct or solicitation of benefits by involved personnel will result in disciplinary actions as provided by law.
  • Proper disposition of voluntary gifts is managed by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs to maintain propriety and prevent corruption.

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