Law Summary
Background and Purpose
This Executive Order reconstitutes the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC) to oversee the 500th anniversary commemoration of the Philippines' participation in the first circumnavigation of the world, the victory of Lapulapu in the Battle of Mactan, and related events in 2021.
Legal Basis:
- Article XIV, Section 15 of the Philippine Constitution promotes the conservation and promotion of historical and cultural heritage.
- Republic Act No. 10086 ("Strengthening People's Nationalism Through Philippine History Act") emphasizes the importance of Philippine history.
Objectives:
- Strengthen Filipino nationalism and pride.
- Promote local and national tourism.
- Foster socioeconomic growth and social awareness.
Composition of the National Quincentennial Committee
The NQC is reconstituted with specific roles and responsibilities.
- Chairperson: Executive Secretary.
- Vice-Chairperson and Executive Director: Chairperson of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
- Members: Include Secretaries from various departments (Foreign Affairs, Tourism, Budget and Management, Interior and Local Government, Public Works and Highways, Education, National Defense, Presidential Communications, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and a Presidential Adviser for the Visayas).
Functions of the Committee
The NQC is tasked with several key functions to facilitate the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations (QCP).
- Primary Functions:
- Conceptualize and implement programs related to the QCP.
- Coordinate activities and serve as a clearinghouse for information.
- Constitute sub-committees for specific tasks.
- Conduct fundraising activities in compliance with laws.
- Engage government agencies and private entities for assistance.
Powers and Functions of the Vice Chairperson and Executive Director
Defines the role of the Vice Chairperson and Executive Director in executing the NQC's objectives.
- Responsibilities:
- Monitor and coordinate the implementation of Committee projects.
- Represent the Committee in authorized meetings.
- Ensure administrative support from the Secretariat.
Principles of the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations
The QCP is framed around key principles that guide the commemorative activities.
- Filipino-Centric: Activities should reflect and promote Filipino identity and culture.
- Multidisciplinary: Engage scholars across various fields to enhance historical understanding.
- Communicative and Transformative: Utilize media to promote historical education and conservation of historic sites.
Funding Provisions
Outlines the funding source and management for the implementation of the Executive Order.
- Funding Sources:
- Primarily from NHCP funds and the Contingent Fund as necessary.
- Future funding requests to be included in NHCP's budget proposals.
Sunset Provision
Specifies the duration and termination conditions of the Committee's existence.
- Duration: The NQC will dissolve after the liquidation of its documents and properties or twelve months post-December 31, 2021, whichever occurs first.
Legal Provisions
Includes clauses regarding severability, repeal of conflicting provisions, and effectivity.
- Severability: If any part of the Order is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions remain effective.
- Repeal: Conflicting provisions of EO No. 55 remain repealed or modified.
- Effectivity: The Order takes effect immediately upon signing.
Key Takeaways
- The Order reconstitutes the National Quincentennial Committee to coordinate the 2021 QCP celebrating Filipino history and culture.
- It outlines a structured committee composition and delineates specific roles and responsibilities.
- The QCP emphasizes Filipino perspectives, multidisciplinary engagement, and transformative communication strategies.
- Funding is facilitated through NHCP resources, with a sunset clause ensuring timely closure of the Committee's operations post-commemoration.
- Legal provisions ensure the continuity of unaffected provisions and immediate effectivity of the Order.