Legal Basis for Authentication Functions
- The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (Article 5, Chapter 1, sub-article F) mandates consular offices to perform notarial and administrative authentication duties.
- Executive Order No. 292 (1987) tasks the DFA as the official channel for foreign relations and legal documentation functions.
Transfer of Authentication Responsibility
- The Department of Foreign Affairs - Office of Consular Affairs (DFA-OCA) is designated as the sole agency responsible for authenticating documents previously certified by issuing agencies.
- All equipment, furniture, materials, and documents relevant to authentication functions are transferred from AO-OP to DFA-OCA.
Personnel Transition and Competency Development
- AO-OP personnel involved in authentication are detailed to DFA-OCA for a maximum of six months for training and competence acquisition.
- The transition period aims to maintain the one-day authentication service standard established by AO-OP.
- After the detail period, personnel may either remain with DFA-OCA or opt for early retirement.
Financial Management
- All proceeds from the authentication process are to be deposited intact with the National Treasury.
- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will allocate operational funds to DFA-OCA based on proposals from the DFA-OCA.
Continuous Process Improvement
- DFA, working with relevant government agencies, shall conduct ongoing research to improve the authentication process.
Implementation and Regulation
- The Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs is mandated to issue the necessary rules and regulations to enforce this Executive Order.
Repeal of Conflicting Issuances
- Letter of Instruction 1446 (1985) and other conflicting laws or issuances are repealed, amended, or modified to conform with this Order.
Effectivity
- This Executive Order takes effect immediately upon signing on December 4, 2006.