Law Summary
Introduction
This Executive Order No. 336, signed on January 5, 2001, reconstitutes the National Action Committee on Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism (NACAHT) into the National Council for Civil Aviation Security (NCCAS) in response to increasing threats against civil aviation and terrorism.
Background
- Historical Context:
- The NACAH was first organized on April 28, 1976, following a hijacking incident in Zamboanga.
- It has undergone several reconstitutions, including EO 393 in 1990 and EO 242 in 1991, establishing the DILG's chairmanship.
- Rationale for Reconstitution:
- Rising incidents of terrorism have highlighted the inadequacies in law enforcement's ability to combat such threats.
- A need for a cohesive mechanism to address aviation-related terrorism and enhance security measures.
Establishment of NCCAS
- Reconstitution:
- NACAHT is reconstituted and renamed as the NCCAS.
- Composition:
- Chairman: Secretary of the Interior and Local Government
- Vice Chairman: Secretary of National Defense
- Members: Various secretaries (Budget and Management, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Justice, Transportation and Communications), Press Secretary, Directors from various agencies, and the Chief of the Philippine National Police.
Mandate and Responsibilities
- Functions of NCCAS:
- Formulate and oversee plans to prevent and suppress terrorist threats to civil aviation.
- Enhance operational effectiveness of local law enforcement agencies.
- Specific Duties:
- Address hijacking, sabotage, and violence against aviation personnel and the public.
- Develop strategies to protect national interests against terrorism.
Coordination and Cooperation
- Inter-agency Collaboration:
- NCCAS is tasked with fostering close coordination with international agencies opposing terrorism.
- Enhance intelligence and operational capacities to counter terrorism.
Authority and Implementation
- Call for Assistance:
- NCCAS can enlist assistance from other governmental departments and agencies.
- Absorption of Powers:
- All powers, functions, and resources of the NACAH are transferred to NCCAS.
Modifications to Previous Orders
- Amendments:
- Modifications to previous executive orders (EO 393, EO 452, EO 246) are enacted to align with the reconstitution.
Effectivity
- Immediate Effect:
- The Executive Order is effective immediately upon promulgation.
Key Takeaways
- Reconstitution of NACAHT: The transformation into NCCAS aims to strengthen aviation security against terrorism.
- Broad Composition: The NCCAS includes high-level government officials, ensuring a multi-agency approach.
- Enhanced Security Measures: Focus on preventing and responding to terrorism threats, particularly in civil aviation.
- Collaboration Emphasis: Significant emphasis on cooperation with international entities to combat terrorism collectively.
- Immediate Implementation: The order takes effect immediately, indicating urgency in addressing civil aviation security concerns.