Prohibition on Changing Political Party Affiliation
- Members of the Interim Batasang Pambansa are prohibited from changing their political party while in office.
- The prohibition is strict except for exceptions explicitly provided in the Constitution.
Consequences of Violation
- Any member who violates this prohibition forfeits their seat in the Interim Batasang Pambansa.
- The forfeiture is effective for the remainder of the violating member's term of office, ensuring that party-switching results in immediate and sustained loss of legislative position.
Effectivity
- The decree took effect immediately upon its signing on January 26, 1980.
Legal Authority
- The decree was issued by President Ferdinand E. Marcos with constitutional powers, reinforcing the binding legal force of its provisions.
Summary of Key Legal Concepts
- Political party allegiance during the term is constitutionally mandated.
- Party-switching during the term is classified as political malpractice subject to penalty.
- Maintaining the integrity of political parties ensures political stability and discourages opportunistic behavior in public office incumbency.