Law Summary

Introduction

This document summarizes Executive Order No. 784, issued on February 19, 2009, by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, authorizing the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. to conduct fund campaigns to support its Operation: Barrio Schools project.

Purpose and Policy

• Legal Basis: The Executive Order is rooted in Republic Act No. 8525, which establishes the Adopt-A-School Program, aiming to enhance the quality and relevance of education for Filipino youth and incentivize private sector support for public education.
• State Policy: It is the State's policy to encourage private initiatives that upgrade and modernize public schooling, especially in impoverished areas.

Federation's Role and Achievements

• Federation's Initiative: The Federation has committed to providing school houses for school-age children, having already donated approximately 3,600 two-room school houses across various barangays.
• Public Character: Despite being a private entity, the Federation's projects are of significant public interest and warrant government support.

Recognition of Contributions

• Donation Recognition: Contributions made via the Operation: Barrio Schools project are recognized as donations to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines or its agencies.
• Use of Funds: Funds raised will exclusively finance activities aligned with the National Priority Development Plan as set out by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Tax Incentives

• Tax Exemptions: Contributions to the Operation: Barrio Schools project are exempt from all forms of taxation.
• Income Tax Deductions: Donors can deduct the full amount of their contributions for income tax purposes, in line with existing laws and regulations.

Authority and Duration

• Authorization: The Federation is authorized to conduct fund campaigns for one year, starting from the issuance date of this Executive Order.
• Enjoinment of Citizens: All Filipino citizens and residents are encouraged to contribute generously to ensure the project's success.

Implementation and Renewal

• Timeframe: The Executive Order is effective for one year from issuance, with the possibility of renewal.

Signatures

• The Executive Order is signed by President Gloria M. Arroyo and Executive Secretary Eduardo R. Ermita.

Key Takeaways

• Executive Order No. 784 empowers the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry to conduct fundraising for educational infrastructure.
• Contributions to the project are tax-exempt and can be fully deducted for income tax purposes.
• The initiative aims to enhance educational facilities in impoverished areas, aligning with national educational priorities.
• The Executive Order is effective for one year from February 19, 2009, with a call for public support.