Context and Reasons for Repeal
- Martial law has been lifted, and the National Security Code, which incorporated the decree, has also been repealed.
- There remained legal uncertainty regarding the decree's force and effect despite the changed political and legal environment.
- Proclamation No. 3 dated March 25, 1986, conflicted with the provisions of the decree, further questioning its validity.
- Express repeal is necessary to definitively remove any ambiguity concerning the decree's enforceability.
Scope of Repeal
- The scope of repeal specifically targets Presidential Decree No. 33, which dealt with penalizing certain forms of printed and graphical materials that were deemed subversive.
- The decree’s prohibition included leaflets, handbills, propaganda materials, and graffiti — all forms of communication and expression.
Legal Effectiveness
- The repeal is immediate upon the issuance of the Executive Order.
- This signifies that all penalties or restrictions imposed by Presidential Decree No. 33 are no longer enforceable.
Implications for Freedom of Expression
- The repealing order restores and affirms the freedom of expression guaranteed under the Philippine Constitution.
- It removes legal barriers and penal provisions that had been used to suppress political dissent and public discourse.
Authority and Issuance
- The Executive Order was issued by President Corazon C. Aquino.
- It was signed and promulgated in Manila on July 16, 1986.
- The Executive Secretary attested and facilitated the issuance of this Order.