Title
Order of Presidential Succession in Philippines
Law
Republic Act No. 181
Decision Date
Jun 21, 1947
Republic Act No. 181 establishes the order of presidential succession in the Philippines, outlining the individuals who will assume the presidency in specific circumstances until a new President is elected and qualifies.

Order of Succession After President and Vice-President

  • First successor: President of the Senate.
  • If the President of the Senate is unavailable due to removal, death, resignation, or inability to act, the next successor is the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
  • If both the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House are unavailable under the same conditions, a Senator or Representative elected by the Members of Congress in a joint session will act as President.
  • The acting President serves until the qualified President, President-elect, Vice-President, or Vice-President-elect assumes office or until the disability is removed.

Temporary and Acting Capacity of Successors

  • The successors listed act only temporarily as President.
  • Their role is to maintain the functions of the Presidency during transitional periods.
  • This arrangement ensures no vacancy or leadership vacuum in the executive branch.

Repeal of Previous Laws

  • Commonwealth Act Numbered Sixty-eight is repealed.
  • Executive Order Numbered Three hundred and ninety is also repealed.
  • This Act supersedes previous legislation concerning presidential succession.

Effectivity Clause

  • The Act takes effect immediately upon its approval.
  • Ensures the provisions are operational without delay for government continuity.

Legal Significance

  • Provides a codified, clear, and hierarchical structure for presidential succession.
  • Addresses contingencies where highest offices are unfilled or incapacitated.
  • Maintains stability and orderly governance during crises affecting the executive leadership.

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