Necessity of Government Response
- The situation is described as urgent, requiring an immediate and effective response from the government.
- The response aims to prevent further casualties and property destruction.
Constitutional Authority Invoked
- The President exercises powers under Article VII, Section 18 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
- This power as Commander-in-Chief allows calling out the Armed Forces to prevent or suppress lawless violence whenever necessary.
Specific Orders to Security Forces
- The directive calls upon the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to act immediately.
- The Chief of Staff of the AFP and the Chief of the PNP are expressly instructed to implement the order.
- All officers and enlisted personnel of AFP and PNP are commanded to undertake the necessary and appropriate actions.
Operational Guidelines
- Actions taken must be immediate and effective to address terrorism and lawless violence in Mindanao.
- Implementation of measures must respect the constitutional rights of every individual.
Objective of the General Order
- To prevent further acts of terrorism and lawless violence specifically in the Mindanao region.
- To protect innocent lives and preserve property from further harm.
Legal and Administrative Implications
- The General Order sets a clear mandate for coordinated military and police operations.
- It reaffirms the constitutional basis for the use of Armed Forces and police in internal security operations.
- It emphasizes adherence to the rule of law and respect for human rights despite the exigency of the security situation.
Formal Adoption and Executive Authority
- The order was officially adopted on May 9, 2002.
- It was promulgated and signed by Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, President of the Philippines and Commander-in-Chief.
- The Executive Secretary, Alberto G. Romulo, acknowledged the promulgation.