REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
19th CONGRESS 
SECOND REGULAR SESSION 
HOUSE BILL NO.  __________ 
INTRODUCED BY HONORABLE EDUARDO ‘BRO. EDDIE’ C. VILLANUEVA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippines is facing serious internal and external security threats. 
Internally, the country is still dealing with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Abu 
Sayyaf Group, and Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army. 
Meanwhile, the territorial dispute between China and the Philippines over the Western 
Philippine Sea has yet to end.  
To defend the Philippine territory against all current and future enemies, and 
uphold the sovereignty of the country, our national defense should be strengthened. 
Unfortunately, the National Defense Act has not been amended for over 88 years or 
since it was signed on December 21, 1935.  
In preparation against internal and external hostilities of all kinds, this bill seeks 
to reform our defense policy by mandating the Department of National Defense (DND) 
as the primary government agency responsible for guarding against external threats 
to national security. It is also mandated to provide support to address internal threats, 
spur social and economic development, and promote the welfare of soldiers and 
veterans.  
This bill provides for the power and functions of the DND, its organizational 
structure, and its budget, among others. In addition, this bill enumerates the powers 
and functions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the functions of the 
Philippine Army, the Philippine Air Force, and the Philippine Navy in relation to Joint 
Force Operational Commands. Lastly, this bill seeks to establish a Warrant Officer 
Corps, and strengthen the mandates of the Military Discipline and Justice System, the 
Government Arsenal, the National Defense University of the Philippines, the Office of 
Civil Defense, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, and the Veterans Medical Center. 
As one of the priority measures supported by President Marcos, the immediate 
passage of this measure is earnestly sought. 
HON. EDUARDO ‘BRO. EDDIE’ C. VILLANUEVA 
December 11, 2023
8:00 am
9697


REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
19th CONGRESS 
SECOND REGULAR SESSION 
HOUSE BILL NO.  __________ 
INTRODUCED BY HONORABLE EDUARDO ‘BRO. EDDIE’ C. VILLANUEVA 
AN ACT 
TO ENHANCE THE CAPABILITY AND STREAMLINE ORGANIZATIONAL ROLES 
OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE AND ITS BUREAUS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES  
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS 
SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as “The National Defense 
Act of 2023.”  
SEC. 2. Declaration of National Defense Policies. - The national defense 
policies of the Republic of the Philippines shall be as follows:  
(a) In defending the Philippines, the paramount consideration shall be national
sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest and the broad concern of
national security.
(b) The preservation of the State is the obligation of every citizen. The security,
freedom, and independence of the Philippines shall be guaranteed by the
mobilization of all citizens, without distinction of age, gender, civil status,
ethnicity, religion, and all resources.
(c) The civil authority shall at all times be supreme over the military. The
President of the Philippines as the Commander-in-Chief of all armed forces
shall be responsible in ensuring that mobilization measures are prepared at all
times.
(d) The national defense organization shall be adapted as closely as possible
to the territorial and administrative organization of the Philippines.
9697


(e) The employment of the nation’s citizens and resources for national defense
shall be effected by mobilization based on the defense posture prescribed in
defense policies.
(f) The mobilization shall include the execution of all measures necessary to
pass from a peace to a war footing or in any case of actual invasion or when
public safety and security so requires as well as during its transition to normalcy
or rehabilitation.
(g) The mobilization plans of financial, industrial, economic, technological and
social resources of the Philippines shall conform to the defense concept based
on the defense policies and shall be prepared by the executive departments
concerned in accordance with the following general policies:
(1)
The respective responsibilities of the concerned executive
departments in mobilization planning will be prescribed by the President;
and
(2) Forces and resources shall be employed so as to ensure unity and
continuity of effort until normalcy has been attained.
(h) No profit incident to war shall accrue to any individual, corporation,
association or partnership.
(i) The State values the dignity of every human person, guarantees full respect
for human rights, including, but not limited to, the rights of indigenous cultural
communities, the equitable rights of all in peace building, gender and
development, the protection of children and other vulnerable groups, and
adheres to the generally accepted principles of international law, including
applicable conventions, protocols and other international agreements. The
State shall pursue the development of an industrial capacity necessary for the
development of self-reliant defense posture, providing adequate support to
local industries and partnership with international entities.
SEC. 3. Defense Conditions and Authority. - Defense conditions shall be the basis 
for the designation of persons and entities to act on behalf of the State. Defense 
Conditions, hereinafter referred to as DEFCON, are levels of national security-peace, 
conflict and war- that tend to, or actually threaten, the security of the State. The level 
of defense conditions and the persons or entities designated to act in behalf of the 
State shall be prescribed by the President.  
MOBILIZATION OF PERSONS AND RESOURCES 
SEC. 4. Military Service. - Military service shall be obligatory for all able-bodied 
citizens 18 to 65 years of age, in case of war, invasion, rebellion, or a national 
emergency as declared by Congress. The methods and procedures for the 
classification, selection, examination, induction, training, mobilization, and release of 
all citizens from their military obligations shall be prescribed by the President.  


SEC. 5. Registration. - The registration of citizens for obligatory military service shall 
be a military function carried out by the Major Services through their respective 
Reserve Commands.  
SEC. 6. Mobilization. - During mobilization, the President shall have the power to 
secure all such resources as may be necessary for national defense. The President 
may authorize and delegate the Secretary of National Defense (SND) to undertake the 
action and activities related thereto.  
SEC. 7. Defense Budget. - Within a period often (10) years, the total annual budget 
for the Department and its bureaus shall be progressively increased to up to two 
percent (2%) of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at Constant Prices of the 
Philippines of the preceding year to sustain effective defense posture. 
TITLE I DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE Article I - General Provisions 
SEC. 8. Mandate. - The Department of National Defense (DND) is the primary 
government agency with the duty of implementing the provisions of this Act. The 
defense establishment shall maximize its effectiveness for guarding against external 
threats to national security, provide support, as directed by the President, to conduct 
operations to address internal threats, support social and economic development, and 
promote the welfare of soldiers and veterans.  
SEC. 9. Powers and Functions of the DND. - To carry out the above declared 
mandate, the DND shall exercise and perform the following powers and functions:  
(a) Design, formulate and prepare national defense concepts, policies,
strategies, plans and programs; (b) Formulate, develop and update defense
policies of the country, including the mobilization plan for the employment of the
country's citizens and resources for national defense;
(c) Develop and build defense capabilities of the Armed Forces to address
readiness and mission requirements and threats;
(d)
Continue to institutionalize and develop the Defense System of
Management (DSOM) that shall integrate, but not be limited to, strategic
defense assessment, planning, resource and financial management,
acquisition, 
control, 
support, 
administration, 
and 
decision-making
responsibilities of the SND and DND senior leaders;
(e) Control, monitor, coordinate, supervise and evaluate the implementation of
national defense policies, plans, programs and activities;
(f) Exercise supervision and control over the AFP, Government Arsenal (GA),
Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and
the National Defense University of the Philippines (NDUP);
(g) Formulate, establish, implement and supervise the quality management
system;
(h) Establish, promote and maintain bilateral and multilateral linkages for
defense and military cooperation with its international counterparts for the
purpose of addressing traditional and non-traditional security threats;


(i) Implement the country’s international defense and security commitments
based on defense and security treaties, cooperation agreements, international
conventions, protocols and other similar arrangements;
(j) Implement a Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program to guarantee the
enhancement of responsive and progressive capabilities and maximum
utilization of resources; and
(k) Perform such other defense-related functions as may be provided by law or
directed by the President of the Philippines.
SEC. 10. Contracts. - The DND is hereby authorized to enter into, make, perform and 
carry out contracts of every class, kind and description which are necessary or 
incidental to the performance of its mandate as provided herein, with any person, firm 
or corporation, public or private, and with foreign government entities, subject to the 
provisions of existing laws, rules and regulations. Within ninety (90) days from the 
approval of this Act, the Secretaries of National Defense, Finance, Budget and 
Management, Trade and Industry, and the Director General of the National Economic 
and Development Authority (NEDA), in coordination with other relevant government 
agencies and upon prior consultation with stakeholders, shall jointly promulgate the 
rules and regulations to facilitate the importation and exportation of defense articles 
compliant with international conventions on the sale, transfer, trade of such articles, 
and applicability of tax laws, if necessary.  
SEC. 11. Administration, Management and Control of Defense Real Properties. 
–  
(a) The Department is hereby authorized to administer, operate, manage,
control, maintain and develop defense real properties for strategic basing and
to use, hold, acquire, or lease any private real property, right of way, or
easement which may be proper or necessary for the accomplishment of its
mandate as provided in this Act.
(b) The sale and/or exchange of strategic defense real properties shall be
prohibited unless otherwise recommended by the SND and approved by the
President of the Philippines.
(c) The lease and/or development of defense real properties, by joint venture
or otherwise shall be allowed upon recommendation of the SND and approval
by the President of the Philippines.
SEC. 12. Special Defense Materiel Acquisition. - Direct contracting of defense 
materiel shall be allowed when the acquisition for use by the Armed Forces of the 
Philippines (AFP) involves special defense equipment or materiel or the SND has 
determined that the interests of the country shall be protected. The DND shall give 
preference to the Self-Reliant Defense Posture as a means to acquire defense 
materiel and equipment prioritizing local defense industry manufacturers, and in case 
of foreign procurements, must be willing to set up an in-country manufacturing and 
production facility with technology all cases,, technology transfer schemes and the 
employment and training of Filipino technical skilled workers, scientists and engineers 
shall be included prioritized.  


Collaboration among government, academe and industries shall likewise be 
encouraged, particularly in defense research and development (R&D). The SND is 
hereby authorized to enter into contracts and agreements, particularly under 
international defense cooperation agreements with technology transfer industry 
development components. A best rated offer shall be applied for Filipino-owned 
defense industries located within the Philippines. Existing incentives provided by other 
existing laws, rules and regulation shall be accorded to both local and foreign-owned 
defense industries similar to the investment incentives of the Philippine Economic 
Zone Authority (PEZA), Board of Investments (BOI) and the like, to further promote 
incountry manufacturing and production. Unless otherwise provided in the 
Implementing Rules and Regulations of this Act, other appropriate modes of 
acquisition, including those under the Government Procurement Reform Act of 
Republic Act No. 9184 may apply.  
SEC. 13. Grants and Donations. - The Department may accept donations, 
contributions, and grants from various sources, domestic or foreign, for purposes 
relevant to its functions or intended for its bureaus and agencies: Provided, That in 
case of donations from foreign governments or persons, acceptance thereof shall be 
subject to existing laws, rules and regulations.  
SEC. 14. Defense and Cooperation. - The DND may develop, enhance and sustain 
multi-dimensional defense and security cooperation and engagements with the 
defense establishments and armed forces of other countries, and other regional and 
international organizations based on the principle of good governance, mutual benefit 
and respect, and in line with the foreign policies of the Philippines. Article II - 
Organization  
SEC. 15. Organizational Structure. - The Defense Department shall be composed 
of the DND-Proper and its bureaus namely, the AFP, PVAO, GA, NDUP, OCD and 
other agencies and instrumentalities which shall be under the supervision and control 
of the SND.  
SEC. 16. Composition. - The DND-Proper shall be composed of the Office of the 
SND and the Offices of the Undersecretaries and Executive Staff.  
SEC. 17. Defense Service Staff Personnel. - There shall be a Defense Service Staff 
Corps to provide the skills, technical assistance, and support services in the DND. 
Within two years from the effectivity of this Act, the President, upon the 
recommendation of the SND and the Secretary of Budget and Management shall 
submit for the consideration of Congress a detailed plan for the organization, rank 
structure, salaries, benefits, promotion, separation, retirement, and such other 
management requirements for the operationalization of the Defense Career Service 
Staff Corps and its Career Program which shall be implemented by the DND.  


SEC. 18. Office of the Secretary. - The Office of the Secretary shall consist of the 
SND and his/her immediate staff as determined by him/her.  
 
SEC. 19. Powers and Functions of the Secretary. - The authority and responsibility 
for the exercise of the mandate of the DND and the discharge of its powers and 
functions shall be vested in the SND, who shall have control and supervision of the 
DND, including its bureaus and agencies. The Secretary shall also perform such other 
functions as may be necessary or proper to attain the objectives of this Act or as may 
be provided by law or directed by the President.  
 
TITLE II THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES Article I – 
General Provisions 
 
SEC. 20. Declaration of Policies. –  
(a) The AFP, as the protector of the people and the State, shall secure the 
sovereignty and defend the territory of the Republic of the Philippines against 
all threats;  
(b) The AFP shall uphold the Constitution and adhere to the rule of law at all 
times;  
(c) Professionalism in the armed forces and adequate remuneration and 
benefits of its members shall be a prime concern of the State; and  
(d) The AFP, as an institution, shall be insulated from partisan politics. No 
member of the military shall engage, directly or indirectly, in any partisan 
political activity, except to exercise his/her right to suffrage.  
 
Article II - The Regular Force 
 
A. ORGANIZATION AND COMPOSITION 
Chapter 1 - General Provisions 
 
SEC. 21. Mission and Functions. - The AFP is the protector of the people and 
the State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the 
national territory. It shall have the duty to:  
(a) Defend against all forms of threats to national defense and security;  
(b) Design, plan, organize, train, equip, develop, employ and sustain its Regular 
and Reserve Forces for national defense and security; and ( 
c) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law or assigned by the 
Commander-in-Chief.  
 
SEC. 22. Chain of Command. - The exercise of authority, direction, command and 
control over the AFP shall be carried out through the Chain of Command, which is 
the line of authority and responsibility along which orders are passed, beginning 
from the President as the Commander-in-Chief, through the SND, to the Chief of 
Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) / Chairman of the Joint Chiefs 
(CJC) down to the commander of the lowest echelon of command in the AFP: 


Provided, That this does not preclude the SND from issuing orders directly to the 
AFP in accordance with its functions as Department Head.  
SEC. 23. Organization and Composition. - The AFP shall be composed of a 
citizen armed force which shall undergo military training and service, as may be 
provided by law. The citizen armed force shall be composed of all reservists, 
officers, and enlisted men on inactive status. The AFP shall keep a regular force 
necessary for the security of the State. The AFP shall be initially composed of three 
(3) major services: the Philippine Army (PA), the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and
the Philippine Navy (PN). The AFP composition shall be guided by the Table of
Organization and Equipment (TOE) prescribed by the SND upon recommendation
of the CSAFP/CJC.
SEC. 24. Size and Composition. - The Regular Force, alternately referred to as 
the Standing Force, shall be initially composed of the following; (a) Regular Officers 
and Enlisted Personnel; (b) Reservists called to active duty, or on active duty tour 
for training; (c) Draftees, trainees and government-sponsored Filipino cadets 
enrolled in local or foreign military schools; and (d) Warrant officers, as may be 
established pursuant to Section 43 and Section 44 of this Act. The size and 
composition of the Regular Force shall be prescribed by the Table of Organization 
and Equipment (TOE) as approved by the SND and shall be the basis of staffing 
the AFP.  
SEC. 25. Organizational Principle. - The SND, upon the recommendation of the 
CSAFP/CJC, shall organize the AFP into such commands, forces and units in 
accordance with operational requirements. For this purpose, the national territory 
may be divided into such operational areas as the SND may direct.  
SEC. 26. Organizational Structure. - The Regular Force of the AFP shall consist 
of the Joint Headquarters; the Joint Force Operational Commands; the Major 
Services namely, the PA, the PN and the PAF; and the other existing commands, 
units, offices and services of the AFP.  
SEC. 27. Operational Principles. - The operational principles of the AFP shall be 
as follows: 
(a) The Commander-in-Chief shall exercise command and control through the
CSAFP/CJC with the supervision of the SND. The Joint Headquarters AFP shall
command and control the AFP;
(b) The Joint Headquarters AFP shall exercise centralized command and control
to ensure unity and coordination of efforts throughout the military establishment;
(c) The Joint Force Operational Commands, as force employers, shall be
responsible for the decentralized execution of joint operations to achieve maximum
operational effectiveness within the military establishment, unless otherwise
determined by the CSAFP/CJC through the supervision of the SND;
(d) The Major Services, as force providers, shall be responsible for the
development, organization, training, equipping, maintenance and sustainment of


combat forces, combat service forces, technical and administrative service, and 
combat service support forces; and  
(e) The AFP Reserve Force shall provide for the base of expansion of the Major 
Services.  
 
Chapter 2 - The General Headquarters Armed Forces of the Philippines 
 
SEC. 28. Mandate. - The General Headquarters, which shall be headed by the 
CSAFP/CJC, shall command and control the AFP.  
 
SEC. 29. Organization. - The General Headquarters shall be composed of the 
Office of the CSAFP, Office of the Vice Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Chief of 
Staff; the AFP Joint, Personal and Special Staff and other key staff offices and units 
necessary for the effective command and control of the AFP, as recommended by 
the CSAFP/CJC with the approval of the SND.  
 
SEC. 30. Powers and Functions. - The CSAFP/CJC shall: (a) Serve as the 
principal military advisor to the President and the SND; (b) Be responsible for the 
formulation of the national military strategy consistent with the national defense 
strategy; (c) Be responsible for the development of the policies, strategies, 
missions, plans and programs of the AFP; and (d) Prescribe the organization, 
powers, functions and duties of the various staff, services, and other units of the 
AFP in accordance with the country’s national defense policy.  
 
SEC. 31. The Joint Staff. - The Joint Staff, as coordinating staff, shall advise and 
assist the CSAFP/CJC in the performance of his/her functions. The organization, 
functions and duties of the Joint Staff shall be prescribed by the CSAFP/CJC.  
 
SEC. 32. Special Staff. - The Special Staff, as specialized, technical and 
administrative staff, shall advise and assist the CSAFP/CJC in the performance of 
his/her functions. The organization, functions and duties of the Special Staff shall 
be prescribed by the CSAFP/CJC.  
 
SEC. 33. Authority to Reorganize the General Headquarters. - In the interest of 
efficiency and effectiveness, the CSAFP/CJC, upon the approval of the SND, may: 
(a) Establish and organize staffs, offices and units in the General Headquarters in 
addition to the AFP Joint, Personal and Special Staff, and prescribe the 
organization, mission and functions; and (b) Establish, organize, and/or abolish 
Staffs, offices and units in the AFP and prescribe their structure, mission, functions, 
duties and responsibilities, and other parameters and standards. 
 
Chapter 3 - Joint Force Operational Commands 
 
SEC. 34. Organization, Mission and Function. –  


(a) The Joint Force Operational Commands shall be organized and established by 
the CSAFP/CJC as approved by the SND, and shall be under the command, 
control and operational direction of its Joint Force Commander.  
(b) The mission, functions, duties and responsibilities and joint area of operations 
of the Joint Force Operational Commands shall be prescribed by the SND, in 
consultation with, or upon the recommendation of the CSAFP/CJC.  
 
SEC. 35. The Philippine Army (PA). - The PA, headed by the Chief of the 
Philippine Army, shall provide forces that are responsible for the conduct of prompt 
and sustained joint and combined ground operations in support of the AFP mission. 
It shall be composed of its headquarters, maneuver units, and sustainment units 
and such other units as may be necessary for the conduct of ground operations.  
 
SEC. 36. Functions of the PA. - The PA shall: (a) Develop, organize, train, equip, 
maintain, and sustain such ground forces or units as may be necessary for the 
conduct of prompt and sustained operations; (b) Prepare such forces or units as 
may be necessary for the effective implementation of the national defense plans 
and programs and armed forces missions; (c) Formulate and develop, in 
coordination with the other Major Services, doctrines, systems, tactics, techniques 
and procedures peculiar to the Army; (d) Implement mobilization of the Army 
Reserve; and (e) Perform such other functions and duties as may be provided by 
law or assigned by the CSAFP.  
 
SEC. 37. The Philippine Air Force (PAF). - The PAF, headed by the Chief of the 
Philippine Air Force, shall provide forces that will be responsible for the conduct of 
prompt and sustained air operations in support of the AFP mission. It shall be 
composed of its headquarters, air combat, combat support and sustainment units 
and such other units as may be necessary for the conduct of air and support 
operations.  
 
SEC. 38. Functions of the PAF. - The PAF shall:  
(a) Develop, organize, train, equip, maintain, and sustain such airforces or units as 
may be necessary for the conduct of prompt and sustained operations;  
(b) Prepare such forces or units as may be necessary for the effective 
implementation of the national defense plans and programs and armed forces 
missions;  
(c) Formulate and develop, in coordination with the other Major Services, doctrines, 
systems, tactics, techniques and procedures peculiar to the Air Force;  
(d) Implement mobilization of the Air Force Reserve; and  
(e) Perform such other functions and duties as may be provided by law or assigned 
by the CSAFP.  
 
SEC. 39. The Philippine Navy (PN). - The PN, headed by the Chief of the 
Philippine Navy, shall provide forces that shall be employed for the conduct of 
prompt and sustained naval operations in support of the AFP missions. It shall be 


composed of its headquarters, naval forces, service support and sustainment units 
and such other units as may be necessary for the conduct of naval operations.  
 
SEC. 40. Functions of the PN. - The PN shall:  
(a) Develop, organize, train, equip, maintain, and sustain such naval forces or units 
as may be necessary for the conduct of prompt and sustained operations;  
(b) Prepare such forces or units as may be necessary for the effective 
implementation of the national defense plans and programs and armed forces 
missions;  
(c) Formulate and develop, in coordination with the other Major Services, doctrines, 
systems, tactics, techniques and procedures peculiar to the Navy;  
(d) Implement mobilization of the Navy Reserve; and  
(e) Perform such other functions and duties as may be provided by law or assigned 
by the CSAFP.  
 
SEC. 41. Technical and Administrative Service. - Each Major Service shall 
develop, organize, train, equip, maintain, and sustain their respective Technical 
and Administrative Service composed of, but not limited to. The Judge Advocate 
General Service, Medical Corps, Veterinary Corps, Medical and Administrative 
Corps, Nurse Corps, Dental Corps, Chaplain Service, and Corps of Professors.  
 
SEC. 42. The Women’s Auxiliary Corps. - The Women’s Auxiliary Corps as 
created by Republic Act No. 3835, as amended, otherwise known as An Act to 
Establish the Women’s Auxiliary Corps in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to 
Provide the Procurement of its Officers and Enlisted Personnel, and for Other 
Purposes, shall be integrated into their respective Major Service. For this purpose. 
Republic Act No. 3835 is hereby repealed.  
 
Chapter 4 - Establishment of Warrant Officers Corps 
 
SEC. 43. Warrant Officers Corps. - There is hereby established a corps of highly 
technical and specialized officers appointed to the regular force. Within two (2) 
years from the effectivity of this Act, the President, upon the recommendation of 
the SND and the Secretary of Budget and Management, shall submit for the 
consideration of Congress a detailed plan for the organization, rank structure, 
salaries, benefits, promotion, separation, retirement, and such other management 
requirements for the operationalization of the Warrant Officers Corps.  
 
Chapter 5 - Military Education and Training Institutions. 
 
SEC. 44. Organization, Mission and Function. - (a) The Philippine Military 
Academy (PMA), AFP Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Officer 
Candidate School (OCS), Non-commissioned Officer Academy and other military 
education and training institutions organized and established by the CSAFP with 
the approval of the SND shall be under the command, control and direction of their 
respective military education and training Superintendent/Commandant. (b) The 


mission, functions, duties and responsibilities of the military education and training 
institutions shall be prescribed by the CSAFP with the approval of the SND.  
 
SEC. 45. The Philippine Military Academy (PMA). –  
(a) Mandate. - The PMA shall be categorized as a special higher education 
institution which shall serve as the primary training and educational institution 
of the AFP and shall be its principal source of regular officers. The PMA shall 
seek to have its academic program offerings accredited by a reputable 
accrediting agency of national or international standard.  
(b) Organization. - The Academy, headed by the Superintendent, shall be 
organized as prescribed by the SND, upon the recommendation of the 
CSAFP/CJC.  
(c) Development. - The Academy shall determine its teaching, human resource, 
curriculum, research and extension thrusts, plans and programs, standards and 
budget. 
(d) Cadet Corps. - The student body of the Academy shall be known as the 
Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP) and shall have such 
strength, as the SND shall determine, upon the recommendation of the 
CSAFP/CJC.  
(e) Academic Board. - There shall be an Academic Board organized by the 
Superintendent. The Board shall, in accordance with the rules and regulations 
prescribed by the CSAFP, have the power to confer baccalaureate degrees 
upon the cadets who satisfactorily complete the approved course of study.  
(f) Board of Visitors. - The DND shall establish a Board of Visitors to look into 
the academic affairs of the Academy with a view to enhancing its educational 
systems. The composition of the Board of Visitors shall be prescribed by the 
SND. SEC. 46. Authority to Establish Other Military Training Institutions. - The 
President, upon the recommendation of the CSAFP/CJC through the SND, is 
hereby authorized to establish other military training academies and institutions 
in the AFP.  
 
B. ADMINISTRATION OF MILITARY DISCIPLINE AND JUSTICE SYSTEM 
 
SEC. 47. Military Discipline and Justice. –  
(a) There shall be a military discipline and justice system consisting of rules 
governing the conduct of military personnel and providing a method of 
punishment for the purpose of enforcement of discipline and administration of 
justice in the AFP.  
(b) Military justice shall be applicable at all times and in all places to all persons 
subject to military law as defined by existing laws.  
(c) The President as Commander-in-Chief and subordinate authorities as 
provided for in this Act shall have the exclusive authority to administratively 
discipline military personnel for purely service-related offenses or infractions. 
The power to investigate and adjudicate administrative cases against military 
personnel for acts arising from the performance of official duties shall be under 
the exclusive jurisdiction of the AFP.  


(d) No order of separation, dismissal or discharge from the active service or 
acceptance of resignation of Commissioned Officers shall be implemented 
unless approved by the President.  
(e) There shall be a reduction in grade, suspension of active service, and 
forfeiture, suspension, or withholding of pay and allowances of Commissioned 
Officers found administratively liable. The procedure, extent, grounds or system 
for such shall be prescribed by the President as recommended by the SND. 
Other lower disciplinary measures against erring Commissioned Officers shall 
be prescribed by the SND.  
(f) The procedure, extent, grounds or system of reduction in grade, demotion of 
rank, suspension of active service, and forfeiture, suspension or withholding of 
pay and allowances of Enlisted Personnel shall be prescribed by the CSAFP.  
(g) The AFP shall review and revise the existing Manual for Courts Martial for 
the approval of the President through the SND.  
 
C. LEGAL ASSISTANCE 
 
SEC. 48. Extension of Legal Assistance. - All military personnel charged of 
service-related or service-connected, civil or criminal cases, upon the 
determination by The Judge Advocate General or the concerned Major Service 
Judge Advocate of the fact of service connection, with the approval of the 
concerned Chief of Major Services, shall be provided adequate and competent 
legal representation and assistance by military lawyers or counsel of their own 
choice until the logical conclusion of their cases. Reasonable programmed 
allocation can be charged against the budget of the concerned component service 
to support the effective handling and defense of this category of cases.  
 
TITLE III OTHER BUREAUS AND AGENCIES UNDER THE DEPARTMENT 
ARTICLE I - GENERAL PROVISIONS 
 
SEC. 49. Supervision and Control. - The SND shall exercise supervision and 
control over the bureaus and agencies under this Title, as well as its personnel.  
 
SEC. 50. Organization. –  
(a) Unless otherwise provided by law, the organization, functions, duties and 
responsibilities of the staff and operating units of each of the bureaus and agencies 
under the DND shall be as prescribed by the SND in appropriate rules and 
regulations issued for the purpose.  
 
(b) For this purpose, and in the interest of service, the SND may, in accordance 
with the policies or directives of the President:  
(1) Establish and organize staffs, offices and units in the bureaus or agencies 
and prescribe the titles, powers, functions and duties of the positions therein;  
(2) Abolish existing staffs, offices and units in the bureaus or agencies not 
specifically provided by law, or transfer or consolidate their functions and duties 
with other staffs, offices or units; and  


(3) Abolish a position of any bureau or agency and transfer or consolidate its 
functions and duties with those of another position.  
 
SEC. 51. Separation Benefits of Officials and Employees of Affected 
Bureaus or Agencies. - Government employees displaced or separated from the 
service as a result of the restructuring pursuant to this Act shall be entitled to 
separation pay and other benefits in accordance with existing laws, rules or 
regulations.  
 
ARTICLE II THE GOVERNMENT ARSENAL 
 
SEC. 52. Mandate. - The Government Arsenal (GA) shall develop, operate, 
maintain and secure facilities for the manufacture of weapons, munitions and other 
defense materiel to support the requirements of the AFP, Philippine National Police 
(PNP) and other law enforcement agencies, and, to sell and export products in 
excess of the local demand.  
 
SEC. 53. Power and Functions. - The GA shall have the following powers and 
functions:  
(a) Formulate and implement plans and programs towards the achievement of 
self-sufficiency in weapons, small arms ammunition, mortars, medium and large 
caliber ammunition and other munitions needed by the country’s defense and 
security establishments;  
(b) Design, conduct research, develop, manufacture, procure, repair, stockpile 
and allocate weapons, munitions and other defense materiel subject to existing 
laws and regulatory requirements;  
 
 
(c) Sell and export products in excess of the requirements of the AFP and other 
law enforcement agencies, subject to existing laws;  
 
(d) Devise ways and means for the efficient mobilization of civilian/private 
industry to augment its production for use of the defense and security forces; 
and  
 
(e) Establish, secure and operate government defense manufacturing plants, 
as necessary, in strategic locations within the country.  
 
SEC. 54. Organization and Administration. - The GA shall be headed by a 
Director with one or more Assistant Directors who shall support the Director in the 
administration, manufacturing operations and other affairs of the bureau; all of 
whom shall be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the SND, 
and who shall have the relevant expertise, training and experience in the field of 
munitions.  
 
SEC. 55. Modernization of the Arsenal. - The modernization of the GA for the 
development of production capabilities to enhance self-sufficiency in defense 


requirements, shall be part of the defense modernization program. The GA may 
use such production facilities as it may own or be provided with under this Act or 
as it may arrange, under joint venture, co-production or similar agreements with 
local and foreign entities, which arrangements may include SRDP, sales, and tax 
privileges as concurred with by the Department of Finance in accordance with law.  
 
ARTICLE III NATIONAL DEFENSE UNIVERSITY 
 
SEC. 56. Transformation of the National Defense College of the 
Philippines (NDCP). - In view of the rapidly evolving national and regional security 
environment, the current academic trends and research thrusts of defense 
institutions in the Asia Pacific, and the increasing need for specialized defense and 
security courses to enhance the academic foundation of promoting Philippine 
national security. The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) is 
hereby transformed into the National Defense University of the Philippines (NDUP) 
categorized as a special higher education institution. To ensure the continuous 
operation of the College, all its personnel and resources shall be absorbed by the 
NDUP. The degree programs, instruction, faculty complement, research, and 
facilities of the NDUP shall be accredited by the Commission on Higher Education 
(CHED). The NDUP shall likewise receive appropriate funding to fulfill the 
requirements of transforming into a defense university.  
 
SEC. 57. Mandate. - In accordance with the standards set forth in pertinent 
laws and regulations on higher education, the NDUP shall train and develop 
potential national defense leaders, civilian officials of the different agencies and 
instrumentalities of the Government, and selected executives from the private 
sector in the formulation and review of national security policies and in undertaking 
research and studies which shall be the basis for the formulation of national 
defense and security policies, plans and programs. The NDUP shall be headed by 
a President, and assisted by an Executive Vice President, and four (4) Vice-
Presidents, all of whom shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines, upon 
the recommendation of the SND. The NDUP President shall have a term of six (6) 
years.  
 
SEC. 58. Powers and Functions. — The University shall have the following 
powers and functions:  
(a) Confer the degree of Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) to 
candidates who have satisfactorily complied with the requirements of the 
program;  
(b) Develop and confer other baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees 
on defense and security;  
(c) Conduct non-degree programs, special courses, seminar workshops and 
symposia on defense and security;  
(d) Undertake policy research and special studies as well as policy formulation 
on strategic defense and security issues;  


(e) Produce research and development output of practical application to the 
various organizational units of defense;  
(f) Establish relevant linkages and outreach programs that are mindful of 
service to the various organizational units of defense; and  
(g) Perform other functions and duties as may be directed by the SND.  
 
SEC. 59. Organization and Administration. –  
(a) The NDUP President shall administer the affairs of the University with the 
assistance of the Executive Vice President, who shall act as NDUP President 
in the absence or incapacity of the NDUP President, and shall perform such 
other functions and duties as may be assigned to him/her by the NDUP 
President or the SND.  
There shall be a Vice-President for Academic Affairs, who shall be responsible 
for the development, implementation, supervision and evaluation of academic 
programs; a Vice-President for Research and Special Studies, who shall be 
responsible for the conduct and supervision of research work and special 
studies for the Department; a Vice-President for Military and Security Affairs, 
who shall be responsible for the overall military and security support to all the 
activities of the University; and a Vice-President for Administration, who shall 
be responsible for the overall administrative support to all the activities of the 
University.  
 
 
(b) The University shall have an Academic Board to assist the President in 
discharging the following functions:  
(1) Supervise the academic affairs of the University;  
(2) 
Recommend 
academic 
consultants, 
professors, 
lecturers, 
instructors, research assistants and other resource persons of the 
University; and  
(3) Recommend the courses of studies to be conducted by the University 
to accomplish its objectives.  
(c) All resource persons of the University, including, but not limited to, academic 
consultants, professors, lecturers, instructors, thesis advisers, members of 
examining and evaluating panels, examiners, correctors, and technicians who are 
regularly employed in the Government shall, in addition to their salaries, be entitled 
to receive honoraria, fees and other emoluments fixed by the SND in accordance 
with accounting and budgeting rules.  
(d) The SND may establish a Board of Regents to assist and advise him/her 
and the NDUP President in providing strategic direction and guidance necessary 
to ensure the accomplishment of the mandate of the University.  
 
SEC. 60. Transition. - The SND shall determine the appropriate transition 
period for NDCP to attain the status and competency of a university. Further, 
Congress shall allocate the necessary funds for the transformation of NDCP to 
NDUP.  
 


ARTICLE IV OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE 
 
SEC. 61. Mandate. - The OCD shall have the primary mission of administering 
a comprehensive national civil defense and disaster risk reduction and 
management program during local and national emergencies by providing 
leadership in the continuous development of strategic and systematic approaches, 
as well as measures to reduce the vulnerabilities and risks to hazards and manage 
the consequences of disasters.  
 
SEC. 62. Powers and Functions. - The Office shall have the following powers 
and functions:  
(a) Establish and administer a comprehensive national civil defense and civil 
assistance program, and to include sufficient allocation to agencies and local 
government units (LGUs) such aid and funds as may be made available by the 
national government, assisting governments, and international and local 
organizations;  
(b) Formulate policies and prepare plans for the protection and welfare of the 
civilian population in times of war or other national emergencies as may be 
determined by the President of the Philippines;  
(c) Furnish guidance and coordinate the activities of national government 
agencies, LGUs, private institutions, and civic organizations for natural and 
human-induced disasters;  
(d) Develop and coordinate a program for informing, educating and training the 
general public, volunteer workers and civil defense groups on civil defense and 
assistance measures and activities;  
(e) Prepare and disseminate disaster control manuals and other publications 
related to measures on disaster prevention and mitigation, preparedness, 
response and rehabilitation and recovery;  
(f) Advise the SND on matters concerning civil defense and make 
recommendations from time to time as may be deemed appropriate or as the 
Secretary may require;  
(g) Provide assistance and secretariat services to the National Disaster Risk 
Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to implement the policies set 
by the latter relative to disaster management;  
(h) Furnish guidance to various provinces, cities and municipalities in the 
planning, accreditation, organization and operation of their civil defense 
organizations; and  
(i) Perform such other civil defense functions as may be provided by law.  
 
SEC. 63. Organization. - The OCD shall be headed by an Administrator who 
shall also serve as Executive Director of the NDRRMC and, as such, shall have 
the same duties and privileges of a department undersecretary. It shall operate 
under a duly approved organization and staffing pattern as recommended by the 
SND.  
 
 


ARTICLE V PHILIPPINE VETERANS AFFAIRS OFFICE 
 
SEC. 64. Mandate. - The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) shall be the 
government agency responsible for administering the benefits due to veterans and 
their qualified beneficiaries and shall provide medical assistance to veterans 
pursuant to existing laws. It shall also administer, maintain and develop military 
memorials and battle monuments proclaimed as national shrines.  
 
SEC. 65. Powers and Functions. - The PVAO shall have the following powers 
and functions:  
(a) Formulate and promulgate, subject to the approval of the SND, policies, 
rules and regulations governing the adjudication and administration of veterans 
claims and benefits;  
(b) Adjudicate and administer benefits, pensions and other privileges granted 
to veterans, their heirs and beneficiaries;  
(c) Provide medical care and treatment to veterans pursuant to existing 
programs and projects approved by the SND; 
 (d) Administer, develop and maintain military shrines;  
(e) Develop patriotism and nationalism, and preserve and promote the ideas of 
“kagitingan” in the sacrifices and heroic deeds of veterans;  
(f) Formulate policies concerning the affairs, placement and training of ex-
service members and assist their widows/widowers and dependents, and other 
retired military personnel;  
(g) Undertake the promotion of the general welfare of veterans and their 
families; and  
(h) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.  
 
SEC. 66. Organization. - The PVAO shall be headed by an Administrator who 
may be assisted by one or more Deputy Administrators, all of whom shall be 
appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the SND. It shall have 
such staff and other operating units as may be prescribed by the SND.  
 
SEC. 67. Veterans Medical Center (VMC). - The Veterans Memorial Medical 
Center (VMMC) is hereby renamed as Veterans Medical Center (VMC) and placed 
under the supervision and control of DND through PVAO. The SND shall 
immediately include in the Department's programs the operationalization of the 
new VMC, the funding of which shall be included in the Annual General 
Appropriations Act.  
 
FINAL PROVISIONS 
 
SEC. 68. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within twelve (12) months 
from the effectivity of this Act, the DND and all concerned agencies, upon prior 
consultation with relevant stakeholders, shall formulate the appropriate 
Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the proper implementation of this 
Act. The IRR shall be approved by the President of the Philippines.  


 
SEC. 69. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the provisions 
of this Act shall be included in the General Appropriations Act of the year following 
its enactment into law. Thereafter, such sums as may be necessary for its 
continued implementation, especially those pertaining to the approved TOE or its 
equivalent document in civilian bureaus, shall be included in the annual General 
Appropriations Act.  
 
SEC. 70. Separability Clause. - If any part or provision of this Act is held invalid 
or unconstitutional, other provisions not affected thereby shall remain in force and 
effect.  
 
SEC. 71. Repealing Clause. - All laws. Executive Orders, Presidential 
Decrees, rules and regulations inconsistent herewith are deemed modified and 
repealed accordingly. For the avoidance of doubt, all affected provisions of existing 
laws shall be deemed effective until the promulgation of the IRR of this Act.  
 
SEC. 72. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days upon 
its complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation, whichever comes first.  
 
 
Approved,