Law Summary
Legal Basis and Scope of Application
- The prohibition is enacted under the commissioner’s rule-making authority pursuant to Commonwealth Act No. 613, Section 3.
- The directive applies strictly to foreign tourists during their stay in the Philippines.
- The measure aims to prevent foreign interference, undermining, or participation in local political affairs.
Definition of Political Activity
- Political activities refer to any act defined by law and jurisprudence involving political expression or actions.
- Examples mentioned include rallies, assemblies, and gatherings both supporting or opposing the government.
Enforcement and Penalties
- Foreign tourists who violate this prohibition are subject to deportation proceedings.
- The deportation is pursuant to Section 37(a)(7) of Commonwealth Act No. 613, as amended.
- This enforcement signifies the seriousness of maintaining political sovereignty and order.
Effectivity and Dissemination
- The Operations Order took effect immediately upon its adoption on July 3, 2015.
- Copies of the Order were directed to be furnished to the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) and the University of the Philippines Law Center for official record-keeping and dissemination.
Key Legal Concepts
- Exercise of political rights is reserved exclusively for Filipino citizens.
- Foreign tourists enjoy limited rights that do not include participation in political processes.
- The law balances national sovereignty with the privileges granted to foreign tourists under immigration laws.