Authorization and Revitalization of the Volunteer Probation Aide (VPA) Program
- Based on Presidential Decree No. 968, the appointment of citizens with good reputation and probity as volunteer probation aides is mandated.
- Calls for revitalization of the VPA program to utilize community resources effectively in rehabilitation and supervision of offenders.
- Recognizes the community as the "fifth pillar" of the criminal justice system.
Recruitment, Selection, Training, and Appointment Procedures
- The Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) is tasked to recruit, select, train, and appoint volunteers.
- Volunteers must be citizens known for good repute and integrity.
- Volunteers assist in supervisory and rehabilitative functions concerning offenders and in crime prevention efforts.
Interagency and Organizational Coordination
- The PPA must coordinate with various government agencies, non-government organizations, and people’s organizations.
- Entities involved include the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police Community Relations Office, National Police Commission, Liga ng mga Barangay, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and National Prosecution Service.
- Coordination aims to develop volunteerism programs and achieve synergy and program impact.
Review and Revision of Relevant Rules and Regulations
- Directive to PPA to review and update existing rules governing the VPA program.
- New rules and regulations to be established and prescribed by the PPA subject to the Secretary of Justice’s approval.
- Compliance with the Administrative Code of 1987 and the Probation Law of 1976, as amended, is required.
Organizational and Operational Adjustments
- PPA must review its organization, systems, and operations within ninety (90) days of the executive order’s effect.
- Recommendations must be submitted to the Secretary of Justice and subsequently endorsed to the Office of the President.
- Any organizational or staffing changes must come from existing authorized personnel and be approved by the Department of Budget and Management.
- Changes must align with the government rationalization plan.
Funding Provisions
- Any organizational or staffing changes must be financed from the PPA’s existing funds.
Repealing Clause
- All executive orders, instructions, rules, or regulations inconsistent with this order are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The order takes effect immediately upon issuance.