Law Summary

Purpose and Background

This Executive Order aims to strengthen the Cabinet of the Philippines to enhance its effectiveness in achieving developmental goals and objectives. The President recognizes the need for a more manageable and focused Cabinet that minimizes duplication of functions among governmental entities.

• Legal Principle: Strengthening the Cabinet as an advisory body to improve policy formulation and decision-making.
• Context: Addresses the necessity for streamlined operations and cooperation among government agencies.

Composition of the Cabinet

The regular membership of the Cabinet is restricted to the heads of specific Executive Departments and Offices.

• Key Definitions:

  • Cabinet Members: Individuals holding the head positions of designated executive departments.

• Requirements:

  • Membership is confined to heads of the following departments:
    • Department of Foreign Affairs
    • Department of Finance
    • Department of Justice
    • Department of Education
    • Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources
    • Department of Labor
    • Department of National Defense
    • Department of Health
    • Department of Commerce and Industry
    • Department of Public Works and Communications
    • Department of Social Welfare
    • Department of General Services
    • National Economic Council

• Important Details:

  • Heads of certain agencies retain Cabinet rank but attend meetings only upon invitation.

Removal of Cabinet Rank

Certain offices and agencies will no longer hold Cabinet rank, which impacts their participation in Cabinet meetings.

• Key Changes:
  • The following offices will cease to have Cabinet rank:
    • Board of Investments
    • Press Office
    • Presidential Arm on Community Development
    • And others listed
  • The Presidential Assistant on Housing and Resettlement is transferred under the Land Authority.

Reporting Obligations

Cabinet members are required to prepare summary reports for meetings, focusing on departmental contributions to developmental goals.

• Requirements:
  • Reports should include:
    • Accomplishments related to developmental goals.
    • Problems faced by departments.
    • Proposals for enhancing development.

Inter-Cabinet Collaboration

Cabinet members are encouraged to engage in meetings and consultations on common issues.

• Obligations:
  • Initiate discussions on cooperative matters.
  • Report these activities during official Cabinet meetings.

Revocation of Inconsistent Orders

All previous executive and administrative orders that conflict with this Executive Order are revoked.

• Implications: Ensures uniformity and clarity in the Cabinet's structure and functioning.

Key Takeaways

• The Executive Order strengthens the Cabinet's role in governance and development.
• Membership is now limited to heads of major departments, promoting focused decision-making.
• Certain agencies lose Cabinet status, altering their participation dynamics.
• Mandatory reporting and collaborative efforts among Cabinet members are emphasized.
• Revocation of conflicting orders aims for consistency in governance.