Law Summary
Scope and Coverage
- Applies to all government officials and employees at national and local levels.
- Includes personnel in government-owned or controlled corporations.
Conditions for Official Travel Abroad
- Official travel abroad must be urgent and necessary.
- Allowed only if:
- No government funds will be spent;
- The trip complies with an international commitment;
- It brings direct financial benefit to the country;
- Related to scholarship, fellowship, training, or study grants.
- Even if these conditions are met, approval from the Office of the President is discretionary.
- Ministries and government offices must recommend only trips that are urgent, cost-minimal, involve few personnel, and bring immediate benefits.
- No government personnel shall be sent abroad without prior Presidential approval.
- Invitations for official travel must be forwarded to the Office of the President for acceptance determination.
Proposal Submission Requirements
- Travel proposals must be submitted at least 10 days before departure.
- Non-compliance may result in disapproval.
- Required supporting documents include:
- Certificate of urgency signed by appropriate authorities;
- Travel Data Sheet and, if applicable, Training/Scholarship Agreement;
- Financial cost estimate if government funds are involved;
- Certification of attendance at President's Center for Special Studies orientation/seminar.
Prohibition of Piecemeal Requests
- No piecemeal submissions after approval (e.g., for side trips or additional expenses).
- Travel must follow terms and conditions in the original travel authority.
- Additional requests beyond approved terms are not entertained.
Enforcement of Existing Regulations
- Strict enforcement of all rules protecting government financial interests in official foreign travel.
- Compliance with limitations on representation expenses and report submission per Executive Order No. 129.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Violations of the Executive Order subject officials/employees to disciplinary action.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance.