SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
} 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S. No . .-:~_~ 
Introduced by Sen. Gregorio B. Honasan " 
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EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The new contours of politics and economics both internal and external have 
substantially influenced the nature of security challenges of the entire nation. The end of 
the cold war heralded by the fall of the Berlin Wall might have moved the world a step 
away from the spectre of nuclear destruction but it also marked the beginning of what 
Peter Ducker refers to as another "kind of history." In addition to some of cold war's 
"unresolved conflicts," - tension in Taiwan Strait and the Korean peninsula- the new, 
post cold war period also spawned new security challenges from ethno- linguistic strife 
to unresolved border disputes. 
The end of the East-West divide has likewise paved for the systemic 
restructuring of societies- their basic values, social and political structures, and key 
institutions- but in the process, unbalanced other "new" security issues. Such concerns 
that are now being considered in the formulation of long- term policies of government 
include among others, international terrorism, inter- cultural conflict, environmental 
degradation, food and energy scarcity, drug and human trafficking, and ill- effects of 
globalization. Although some of these so-called "new" security challenges have always 
been in our midst, their impacts to the survival and development of individuals and of 
nations have now become clearly understood, necessitating a re-examination and re-
conceptualization of "security." These issues have gained adherents and have moved 
from the periphery to the center of the debate on security policy and strategy 
formulation. 
The security implications of recent developments in the structure of political 
relations among nation states and the international economy- enhanced by advances in 
science and technology warrant the search for a new approach to security, one that 
covers non-military concerns such as economic, environmental, and social issues and 
the one that is able to account for the interconnected effects that such developments 
bear down on the state. 
In the South Asian region, the call for a broader definition of security is reflective 
as well through the 1967 Bangkok Declaration. Although ASEAN leaders described their 
policies as "inward looking", a policy designed to focus and deal with internal security 
problems and threats rather than those that originate from outside sources, there is no 
consensus on the definition of security. 


In consideration of the recent developments in the international arena, the 
Philippines therefore must keep up with the changes in the 21 st century. The country is 
bereft of a Comprehensive National Security Plan. For seventy-eight (78) years, we 
have been using the Commonwealth Act No.1 otherwise known as the National 
Defense Act. In view of the changes in the international arena discussed above, 
Commonwealth Act No. 1 is not responsive anymore in addressing both internal and 
external threats faced by the country. For this reason, a comprehensive national 
security policy needs to be adopted. 
The country need 
a realistic, coherent and 
purposive blueprint to ensure the country's defense and de e opment. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of thi/ m asure is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


• 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
, "" ~ 
S. No. 
? ~ ;':" 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. GREGORIO B. HONASAN II 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR A NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY AND PLANNING FRAMEWORK 
AND CREATING AN INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
TITLE 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS 
Article 1. 
Title and Declaration of Principles and Policies 
Section 1. Title - This Act shall be known as the "The National Security Act of 2013" 
Section 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is the policy of the State to: 
1) Provide a comprehensive system that integrates policies and procedures relating 
to national security for all the departments and agencies of the Government to 
achieve coordination of the Army, Navy, and Air Force and to ensure the 
effective strategic direction of the Armed Forces into the integrated and efficient 
operational organization; 
2) Promote human development and security through the concerted effort of all its 
agencies and instrumentalities and by taking concrete steps to increase the 
availability and widen the range of economic and social choices; 
3) Promote social cohesiveness among its people through education and 
participation in national development; 
4) Protecting its environment and natural resources from undue utilization and 
exploitation thereby ensuring their productive and sustainable use, for the 
benefits of the present and future generations; 


• 
5) Encourage people's participation in national development and provide climate for 
free exercise of political rights; 
6) Cognizant of the pluralist character of its populace, endeavor to create an 
environment conducive to cultural understanding and tolerance in order to attain 
harmony and peace among the people; 
7) Support and encourage initiatives in science and technology and achieve 
technological self-reliance in 
selected areas that are vital 
to 
national 
development; 
8) Ensure full exploration and development in the judicious disposition, utilization, 
management, renewal and conservation of the country's forest, mineral, land, 
water, fisheries, wildlife, off-shore areas, and other natural resources, consistent 
with the maintenance of a sound ecological balance; 
9) Ensyre full protection to labor in terms of optimum working conditions, fair 
compensation, security of tenure and right to organization; , 
10)Protect and promote the right to health of the people and instil health 
consciousness among them; adopt an integral and comprehensive approach to 
health development, priority for the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, 
women and children; endeavor to make essential goods, health, and other social 
services available to all the people at affordable cost; 
11 )Ensure the care, protection and rehabilitation of individuals, families and 
communities which have the least in life and need social work intervention to 
restore their normal functioning and enable them to participate in community 
affairs; and 
12)Maintain good diplomatic standing to promote its national interest. It shall 
enhance cooperative and harmonious relations with other countries, and ensure 
an effective and purposive representation with regional and international 
organizations. 
Section 3, Principles of a National Security Policy. - The following are hereby 
declared to be the principles of the national security policy: 
(a) The military establishments shall at all times be subordinate to civilian authority; 


• 
(b) For the defense of the State all citizens may be required to render personal military 
or civilian services; 
(c) The security of the State shall be pursued in the context of the respect for the rights 
of the Filipino people; 
(d) The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy and affirms the 
right of self-defense against all threats to national security; 
(e) The Philippines adheres to the policy of peace, cooperation and amity with all the 
nations, consistent with the national sovereignty, territorial integrity and self-
determination; 
(f) The Philippines adopts the generally accepted principles of international law; 
(g) The security of the State shall be guaranteed through the mobilization of its citizens 
and resources; and 
(h) The integration of civilian and military personnel and resources shall underlie 
defense policy and structure 
Article 2. Definition of Terms 
Section 4. Definitions. - Under this Act the following terms shall mean: 
1. National Security - refers to the state or condition wherein the people's way of life 
and institutions, their territorial integrity and sovereignty including their well-being 
are protected and enhance. 
2. Defense - refers to the employment of acceptable and reasonable means and 
methods available to prevent, resist and destroy an enemy attack in accordance 
with international laws and standards. 
3. Strategy - refers to a plan of action that organizes efforts to achieve objectives 
with the ways and means of achieving those ends. 
4. National Security Strategy - refers to the bridge that connects the national 
instrument of power (military and diplomacy) and the country's defined national 
security objectives. 


5. National Security Threat - capabilities, intentions, and actions of actual or 
potential enemies to prevent or interfere with the successful fulfillment of national 
security interests and/or objectives. 
Title II: NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY 
Article 3.Defining the Rationale i Objectives of a National Security Strategy 
Section 5. Principles/Objectives of a National Security Strategy -
The primary 
objective of a strategy is to protect and enhance the people's physical and government's 
political survival. Thus, a national security strategy plan shall be governed by the 
following principles and objectives: 
(a) the plan shall be created in the context of the prevailing political system and the 
prevailing security environment, taking into account the threats and opportunities that 
the nation faces; 
(b) the plan shall be realistic, coherent, and purposive blueprint to ensure the country's 
defenses and development because security is not inherited but created; 
(c) the plan shall determine how threats can be encountered and how opportunities can 
be pursued without risking the core values that the people treasure; and 
(d) the plan shall define by the national leadership or by the President provided that the 
strategic vision must be translated into specific security objectives, so that appropriate 
approach can be designed and implemented for the purpose. 
Section 6. Imperative for a National Security Strategy. - A national security strategy 
shall outline three (3) basic elements - ends, ways, and means - and the process that 
govem their interaction. 
a) Ways - the national leadership must be able to foster the broad public understanding 
and support necessary for the implementation of the country's national security strategy 
and plans. It shall also sustain its current security activities or engagements. In the 
event where shaping the security environments proves difficult, the country must be 
prepared to respond the different ways adopted must therefore provide an array of 
possible responses consonant to the anticipated risks that may occur in its security 
environment. 


b) Means- the country's diplomatic instrument of power shall be established which shall 
be composed of professionals to well-trained individuals. Members of the diplomatic 
corps must possess a broad understanding of the dynamics of domestic and 
intemational politics. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) shall remain the strong 
source of the country's security. The AFP shall likewise be composed of professional 
individuals and shall be equipped with tools or technology demanded by the times. 
c) Ends - national security strategy must be focused. It shall define the country's 
strategic objectives or visions which are derived from the hopes and aspirations of the 
people it serves. Henceforth, the ends must ensure the protection of the country's 
fundamental and enduring needs; protect the lives safety of the' people; maintain the 
sovereignty of the country with its values, institutions and territory intact. 
Section 7. Threats to National Security Requiring the Employment of Armed 
Forces. - Upon the direction of the President, threats to national security requinng the 
employment of armed forces shall be addressed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines 
(AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). 
TITLE III . IMPLEMENTING STRUCTURE AND MECHANISMS 
Article 4.The National Security Council 
Section 8. Composition of the National Security Council. - There shall be created a 
National Security Council (NSC) which shall be composed of the following: 
a. The President; 
b. The Vice-President; 
c. The Secretary of Foreign Affairs; 
d. The Executive Secretary; 
e. The Secretary of National Defense; 
f. 
The Secretary of Interior and Local Government; 
g. The Secretary of Justice; 
h. 
The Director-General of the National Economic Development Authority; 
i. 
The National Security Adviser; 
j. 
The Chairman of the Committee on National Defense and Security of both 
Houses of Congress; and 
k. bther government officials and private citizens whom the President may 
designate from time to time. 


The Chief of Staff of the AFP and the Director-General of the Philippine National Police 
shall serve as advisers to the council. 
Section 9. Chairman of the National Security Council.- The President stlall serve as 
the Chairman of the National Security Council. He shall convene and preside over all 
meetings of the Council provided that in his absence, he may designate any member of 
the Council to preside in his place. The Council shall meet as the President may deem 
necessary. 
Section 10. Powers and Functions.- the National Security Council (NSC) shall 
exercise the following powers and functions; 
a) Advice the President on the formulation, integration, coordination and supervision of 
the national security policies; 
b) Formulate guidelines for all agencies of the govemment on matters relating to 
national security, including such rules that will govem the conduct of information and 
intelligence gathering, collation and analysis by agencies and officials involved in 
national security; 
c) Ensure integration of relevant domestic and foreign policies relating to national 
security to enable all departments and agencies of the govemment to cooperate more 
effectively on matters involving national security; 
d) Provide guidance to the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) on the conduct of 
, 
intelligence; and 
e) Exercise oversight function over the NIA. 
Section 11. Executive Committee. - The National Security Council shall have an 
Executive Committee which shall be composed of the President as the Chairman, the 
Vice-President, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, the Executive Secretary, the Secretary 
of National Defense, the Nationat Security Adviser, and such other members or 
advisers as the President may appoint from time to time. 
Section 12. Duties and Responsibilities of the Executive Committee. -
The 
following shall be the primary duties and responsibilities of the Executive Committee: 
a) Review and analyze national security problems; 


, 
b) Formulate position or solutions for Gonsideration by the Council; 
c) Determine the agenda and order of business of the Council; and 
d) Advise the President on the implementation of any decisions. 
To carry out the function of the Executive Committee, the Chairman shall utilize the 
facilities and expertise of any of the government agencies and instrumentalities and 
shall promulgate rules and regulations to govern the operations of the Executive 
Committee. 
Section 13. National Security Adviser. - For purposes of this Act, the Director of the 
National Security Council shall be hereinafter referred to as the National Security 
I 
Adviser. He shall be assisted by a Deputy who shall be appointed by and shall serve at 
the pleasur~ of the President. 
Section 14. Duties of the National Security Adviser. - The National Security Adviser 
shall advise the President on matters pertaining to national security and, whenever 
directed by the President, supervise and monitor the implementation of national security 
policies adopted by the Council. He shall likewise attend and partiCipate in the meetings 
of the Cabinet with the permission of the Chairman. 
Section 15. The National Security Council Secretariat. - The NSC shall have a 
permanent Secretariat which shall be headed by the Deputy National Security Adviser, 
under the general supervision of the National Security Adviser. 
Section 16. Functions. - The Secretariat of the Council shall be responsible for 
providing technical and administrative services to NSC. It shall further undertake the 
following: 
a. Document the proceeding and manage and maintain the records of the meetings of 
the Council; 
b. Ensure the policies formulated by the Council as approved by the President are 
clearly and promptly communicated to the agencies concerned, and that all the 
implementation of national security plan and policies are closely monitored and 
appropriate evaluation of such poliCies are made; 


c. Prepare strategic studies, plans and policy options on issues and concern affecting 
the national security; 
d. Ensure the timely collection and dissemination of information necessary for the 
improvement of the national security process; 
e. Engage the services of and extend financial support to domestic and foreign 
specialist 
and 
experts, 
private 
research 
entities 
and 
other 
non-government 
organizations involved in the conduct of NSC; and 
f. Perform such other tasks as the President may direct. 
Title IV. THE NATIONA.L INTELLIGENCE AGENCY (NIA) 
Section 17. Powers and Authority. - The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) shall be 
the central authority on national intelligence activities; direct, coordinate and integrate 
governmental activities involving national intelligence; and, prepare intelligence 
estimates of local and foreign situations for the formulation of national policies. 
Section 18. Reconstitution of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency.- The 
National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) is hereby converted into the National 
Intelligence Agency (NIA). To ensure the continuity of NICA's operations, all its 
personnel and resources therein shall be absorbed by the NIA. Salaries of its personnel 
shall be fixed or adjusted by the NIA Director, provided that the same is within the limits 
of appropriations provided for the purpose. 
Section 19. Organization. - The NIA is hereby created under the Office of the 
President. It shall be headed by a Director who shall be assisted by a Deputy Director. 
I 
Both officials shall be appointed by the President. 
I 
Section 20. Functions. -The following are the primary functions of the NIA: 
1) Provide the President, the National Security Council. and other government agencies 
with the intelligence, estimates, reports, and other services essential to national 
security; 
2) Undertake intelligence activities, focusing on collecting strategic intelligence 
requirements of the country (political, economic, defense, etc.) to include the collection 
of foreign intelligence; 


, 
3) Collect and process information for dissemination of accurate data; 
4) Coordinate with the various government agencies and instrumentalities for a 
comprehensive and timely distribution of intelligence to end users and to provide 
information and assistance of its mandate; 
5) Maintain and operate a communication and information operations infrastructure; and 
6) Perform such other functions and duties related to intelligence affecting the national 
security as the President or the National Security Council may direct. 
Article 5. National Intelligence Board 
Section 21. Creation of the National Intelligence Board. - There shall be created a 
National Intelligence Board (NIB) which shall be the advisory body to the Director of NIA 
on the conduct, coordination, and integration of intelligence activities and the 
, 
preparation of national intelligence estimates on domestic and international situations. 
I 
. 
, 
Section 22. Composition of the NIB. - The NIB shall be composed of the NIA Director 
as ex-oficio Chairman and the heads of all department and other intelligence units, who 
shall be appointed by the President as members. 
Article 6. Department Strategic Intelligence Units 
Section 23. Department Strategic Intelligence AgenCies. - There shall be created an 
intelligence unit in all departments which shall collect and process information in support 
of the implementation of the country's national security strategy. 
TITLE V. DEFENSE AND MILITARY ORGANIZATION 
Section 24. Principles of the Defense and Military Organization. - The defense and 
military organization shall be govemed by the principles of simplicity of structure, clear 
lines of command, expedient decision-making, jointness, complementarity, economy of 
resources and adaptability to specific environment conditions. 
Section 25. The Line of Authority. - The established lines of authority shall be 
the following: 


, 
(a) In times of peace, the Line of Authority starts from the President of the Philippines 
being the Commander-in-Chief of the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines to the: 
a. Secretary of the National Defense as it pertains to the Armed Forces of the 
Philippines; 
b. Secretary of Interior and Local Government as it pertains to the Philippines National 
I 
• 
Police; 
c. Secretary of Transportation and Communications as it pertains to the Philippine 
Coast Guard. 
(b) In times of emergency to meet threats to national security where mobilization is 
effected by the President, the Line of Authority starts from the President of the 
Philippines, as the Commander-in-Chief of the entire armed forces, to the Secretary of 
National Defense and to the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. 
Article 7. The Department of National Defense 
Section 26. Powers and Functions of the Department of National Defense.- The 
Department of National Defense (DND) shall be responsible for planning, directing, and 
supervising the national defense programs, undertaking and promoting research and 
development activities; and performing such other functions as may be prescribed by 
the President. It shall exercise control and supervision over the Armed Forces of the 
Philippines (AFP), the Government Arsenal (GA), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the 
Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), and the National Defense University of the 
Philippines (NDUP). 
Section 27. Composition.- The office of the Secretary of the National Defense shall be 
headed by the Secretary and shall include, the Undersecretary, the Executive Staff, 
Service Staff and Personal Staff. 
Article 8. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 
Section 28. Powers and Functions. - The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the 
military establishment of the government under the command, control and supervision 
of the President as its Commander-in-Chief through the Secretary of National Defense 
Its mission is to uphold the Constitution, protect the people, preserve territorial integrity 
and secure the sovereignty of the state. Its broad functions are: 


, 
(a) Promote and advance the national security interests of the country; 
(b) Plan, organize, maintain, develop and employ its regular and reserve forces for 
national defense; and 
(c) Perform other functions as may be provided by law or assignfld by higher authorities 
in the Line of Authority. 
Section 29. The Armed Forces ot the Philippines shall undertake a program of 
strengthening the patriotic spirit and nationalist consciousness of all its members and 
respect for people's rights. 
Section 30. The members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines shall be insulated 
from partisan politics and they shall not engage in partisan political activity, directly or 
indirectly, except to vote. 
Section 31. Recruitment of the AFP. - The officers and men of the Armed Forces of 
the Philippines shall be recruited proportionately from all regions of the country, to the 
extent practicable, taking into account the existence of multicultural composition of the 
population. 
Section 32. The President as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the 
~ 
Philippines, whenever it becomes necessary, may call on the AFP to support the PNP in 
preventing or suppressing lawlessness, violence or rebellion. 
Section 33. Regular and Reserve Forces.- The Armed Forces of the Philippines shall 
be composed of the Regular Force and Reserve Force. The Regular Force shall consist 
of all personnel in the active military service. 
Section 34. Organization of the AFP. - The Armed Forces of the Philippines shall be 
organized into three Major Services, namely: Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and 
Philippine Air Force. It shall have an AFP Wide Service Support Units (AFPWSSUs), a 
General Headquarters (GHQ), and organized Operational Commands. 
Section 35. AFP Technical Services.- The AFP Technical Services shall be composed 
of services in specialized fields requiring at least a baccalaureate preparation in a 
particular discipline which are rendered to all AFP personnel and their dependents. 


• 
The AFP Technical Services shall consist of the Chaplain Service, Corps of Professors, 
Judge Advocate General Service, Medical Corps, Dental Service, Veterinary Corps, 
Nurse Corps, and Medical Service Corps. 
Section 36. General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. -The 
General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines shall be composed of the 
offices of the Chief of Staff, the Vice Chief of Staff, the Deputy Chief of Staff, the Armed 
Forces Joint Coordinating Staff, and the Personal, Special, and Technical Statf. 
(a) The AFP Chief of Staff shall exercise command and control over all elements of the 
AFP. He shiall execute command functions in relation to military· strategy and tactics 
operation. He shall be responsible for the development and execution of the national 
defense programs and armed forces mission under the authority and direction of the 
President and the Secretary of National Defense and shall prescribe, in accordance with 
policies of the Secretary of National Defense, the organization, powers, function and 
duties of the various staff, services, installation and other units of the AFP. 
(b) The Vice Chief of Staff shall be the prinCipal assistant to the Chief of Staff and shall 
act, as the Chief of Staff during the latter's absence or disability. He shall assist the 
Chief of Staff in the administration and management of the AFP; 
(c) The AFP General Staff shall advice and assist the Chief of Staff in the performance 
of his functions and in the accomplishment of the tasks of the General Headquarters. It 
shall be headed by the Deputy Chief of Staff, who shall be appointed by the Chief of 
Staff, subject to the approval of the President. The AFP General Staff shall be a Joint 
staff consisting of the coordinating, personal, and special and technical staffs. The 
organization, functions and duties of the General Staff shall be prescribed by the Chief 
of Staff. 
Article 9. The Philippine Army 
Section 37. Mandate. - The Philippine Army shall organize, train, equip, maintain, and 
provide ground forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained land operations to 
accomplish the AFP mission. 
Section 38. Organization.- The Philippine Army shall be composed of its headquarters 
land comlJat and service forces and such other units may be ne'cessary to accomplish 
its assigned mission. It shall be headed by a Commanding General who shall hold the 
rank of Lieutenant General. 


• 
, 
Section 39. Functions.-The Philippine Army shall have the following functions: 
(a) Prepare such units such as may be necessary for the effective prosecution of the 
national defense plans and programs and armed forces missions, including the 
expansion of the peacetime army component to meet emergency; 
(b) Formulate and develop, in coordination with the other Major Services, concepts, 
doctrines, systems, policies, procedures, strategies, tactics, and techniques for army 
operations; 
(c) Organize, and train and equip all army reserve units; 
(d) Assist in disaster relief and search and rescue operations; 
(e) Support national development efforts; and 
(f) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law. 
Article 10. The Philippine Navy 
Section 40. Mandate.- The Philippine Navy shall organize, train, equip, maintain and 
provide Navy forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained naval operations to 
accomplish the AFP missions. 
Section 41'. Organization.- The Philippine Navy shall be composed of headquarters, 
naval combat, marine, support, and such other forces as may be necessary to 
accomplish its mission. It shall be headed by a Flag Officer in Command who shall hold 
the rank of Vice Admiral. 
Section 42. Functions.- The Philippine Navy shall have the following functions: 
(a) Prepare the necessary naval units for the effective prosecution of national defense 
plans and programs and armed forces missions, including the expansion of peacetime 
navy component to meet any emergency; and support the enforcement of all applicable 
laws pertaining to maritime matters like safety of life at sea, immigration, customs, 
revenues, narcotics, quarantine and fishing; 


(b) Formulate and develop, in coordination with the other Major Services, concepts, 
doctrines, systems, policies, procedures, strategies, tactics and techniques for naval 
operations; 
(c) Organize, train and equip all naval reserve units; 
(d) Assist in disaster relief and rescue operations; 
(e) Support national development efforts; and 
(f) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law. 
Article 11. Philippine Air Force 
Section 43. Mandate.- The Philippine Air Force shall organize,' train, equip, maintain 
and provide air forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained air operations to 
accomplish the AFP missions. 
Section 44. Organization.- The Philippine Air Force shall be composed of a 
headquarters, tactical, and service support forces as may be necessary to accomplish 
its assigned mission. It shall be headed by a Commanding General who shall hold the 
rank of Lieutenant General. 
Section 45. Functions.- The Philippine Air Force shall have the following functions: 
(a) Organize, train, and equip forces for airlift, airborne and tactical air operations; 
(b) Formulate and develop, in coordination with the Major Services, concepts, doctrines, 
systems, policies, procedures, strategies, tactics, and techniques for air operations; 
(c) Organize, train, and equip all air force reserve units; 
(d) Assist in disaster relief and search and rescue operations; 
(e) Support national development efforts; and 
(f) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law. 


, 
Article 12. Operational Commands 
Section 46.!Operational Commands.- Operational Commands shall be created which 
shall consist of Area Commands and Specified Commands. TheSND shall prescribe 
the operational boundaries and force structure of these commands. Area Command 
refers to a military command which has broad, continuing mission in a particular 
operational area of responsibility and shall be composed of forces from two or more 
major services. The President shall prescribe the operational boundaries and force 
structure of these commands. 
Section 47. Mandate.- The operational commands shall conduct such prompt and 
sustained land, sea, and air operations as may be necessary to accomplish the AFP 
mission. 
Section 48. Role of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The 
Chief of Staff shall periodically review the mission, responsibilities, including operational 
boundaries and organization of each command, and, as may be necessary, recommend 
to the President, through the Secretary of National Defense, any changes to such 
mission, area of responsibility, and organization. 
Article 13. Reserve Force 
Section 49. Mobilization of the Reserve Force.- The utilization of the Reserve Force 
in times of emergency to meet threats to national security shall be through mobilization 
which shall be effected by the President as follows: 
1. Full Mobilization. When full mobilization is ordered, all units of the Ready, Standby 
and Retired Reserves shall be activated. The reservists constituting the same shall be 
called to active duty and placed on operational readiness; 
I 
2. Partial Mobilization. When partial mobilization is ordered, only the units of the 
Ready Reserve necessary to meet the threat will be activated. The reservists assigned 
to these units called to active duty; and placed on operational readiness; 
3. Selective Mobilization. When selective mobilization shall be ordered by the 
President and shall himself select the units of the Ready Reserve to be activated for the 
purpose. 


Section 50. Mobilization Fund· For purposes of Section 52., the President shall submit 
to Congress a mobilization plan and its corresponding budgetary requirements. Under 
this Act, the President is authorized to cause the preparation and maintenance of 
mobilization staff at reasonable levels, which shall be replenished on a regular basis. He 
is also authorized to cause the utilil'ation of any private entity necessary for the 
implementation of the mobilization. 
Section 51. Duration of Mobilization. The President may call for mobilization for a 
period not exceeding one hundred (100) days after which, he shall render a report to 
Congress, immediately after the termination of mobilization or in case of new 
appropriation for the extension of the period of mobilization. 
Section 52. Demobilization. When the threat or emergency for which the mobilization 
had been ordered has passed, the President shall order the demobilization and 
subsequent deactivation of the reserve units, and reservists shall be reverted to inactive 
status. 
Section 5f" Reserve Force Readiness Evaluation. Reserye Force Readiness 
Evaluation shall be conducted by the Secretary of National Defense upon the 
recommendation of the Chief of Staff on a periodic basis to provide the reservists with 
training opportunities and evaluate operational effectiveness of units and individual 
members. Reservists participating in training and readiness evaluation shall be entitled 
to medical, incapacity and death benefits in accordance with law. 
Section 54. Role of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National 
Police. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine National Police (PNP) shall 
be affiliated reserve units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. In times of war or 
emergency, the PCG and PNP, upon the approval of the President, may be called upon 
to provide forces and resources to support the AFP mission. 
TITLE Vi. SECURITY AND DEFENSE STRATEGY FORMULATION 
Section 55. Role of the President. The President as the Commander-in-Chief shall 
have the responsibility to undertake strategic planning on defense and security policies. 
The President shall transmit to Congress a comprehensive report on the Philippine 
national security strategy, along with the mid- term and long- term defense progress 
with its concomitant annual budget. The report shall primarily contain the following: 


a) National interest, goals, objectives and consequent national defense capabilities vital 
to national security; 
b) Foreign policy, intemational commitments and legislative actions necessary to 
implement the national security strategy of the country; and 
c) Short, m~dium and long- term uses of the elements of national power to protect and 
promote security interests of the country. 
Section 56. Role of the Secretary of National Defense. The Secretary of National 
Defense shall be the principal assistant to the President on policy and strategy matters 
involving national defense. He shall provide the Chief of Staff an annual Defense 
Planning Guidance which shall contain national defense objectives, policies, and 
strategies and the resource levels projected to be available for the period. 
Section 57. The Role of the Chief of Staff. The Chief of Staff shall assist the President 
and Secretary of National Defense in providing strategic direction to the Armed Forces 
of the Philippines. He shall prepare the national military which will contain military 
objectives, strategic review thereof. 
Section 58. Strategic Plans. Strategic plans shall enumerate specific strategic 
objectives, identify resources and constraints, outline strategy for securing objectives, 
and determine force capability requirements. 
Section 59. Strategic Reviews. There shall be a periodic review of the defense 
organization to determine its continuing relevance, viability and capability. The strategic 
review shall be conducted by a special committee to be constituted by the Secretary of 
National Defense upon approval of the President of the Republic. 
Section 60. Administration. The administration of the Armed Forces shall be the 
responsibility of the Secretary of National Defense. 
Section 6,1. Personnel Policies. Personnel policies and administration shall be in 
accordance with the following principles: 
1. Recruitment to the Armed Forces shall be govemed by the principle of equality, 
without distinction to any kind as to ethnicity, gender, religion, and political beliefs. It 
shall be limited to natural born citizens in case of officers; 


• 
2. Career management in education, training, assignment and appointment shall 
provide for equal opportunities to all members; 
3. Promotion of members of the Armed Forces shall be based on merit, efficiency, and 
competence. It shall be governed by the principles of justice, equality, fairness, and 
professionalism; 
4. Members of the Armed Forces sha!1 receive pay, allowances and other benefits that 
shall promote professionalism and afford them a respectable life; 
5. Members of the Armed Forces shall be entitled to retirement and separation benefits 
that shall enable them to live a decent life. Retirement and separation benefits shall not 
be subject to attachment, levy, execution or any tax whatsoever, neither shall they be 
assigned, ceded, or conveyed to any third party; 
6. Attrition of members of the Armed Forces shall consider the best interest of the 
service over that of its individual members; 
7. At any time during the active service, no officer or member of the Armed Forces of 
the Philippines may be appointed or designated in any capacity whatsoever to any 
civilian position in any branch, department, agency, or unit of Government, or any 
government-owned or controlled corporations, or any of the ·subsidiaries of such 
corporations; and 
8. Military officers shall not be allowed extension of service upon retirement. 
Article 14. Government Arsenal 
Section 62. Mandate. The Government Arsenal shall undertake research and 
development on munitions and to operate as an integrated manufacturing entity 
producing munitions primarily for the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine 
National Police. 
Section 63. Organization. The Government Arsenal shall be headed by a Director, 
who shall be a natural- born citizen, with relevant education and experience in munitions 
and its related fields. 


Section 64. Functions. The Arsenal shall have the following functions: 
a) Operate and maintain the Government Arsenal; 
b) Formulate and implement plans and programs to achieve self- sufficiency in arms 
and munitions; 
c) Design, develop, manufacture, stockpile, and allocate arms and munitions without the 
necessity of obtaining any permits or licenses; 
d) In case qf war or an emergency, facilitate the efficient mobilization of civilian industry 
to augment the production of the Government Arsenal; 
e) In case of full mobilization, supervise the operation of the civilian munitions industry; 
and 
f) Procure raw materials, test weapons and other equipment in support of its mission. 
Article 15. Office of Civil Defense 
Section 65. Mandate. The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) shall promote and ensure 
the protection and security of the population, their property and environment, from all 
kinds of disasters by overseeing the effective and efficient implementation of civil 
protection programs and services through integrated, multi-sectoral and community-
based approaches and strategies. 
Section 66. Organization. The OGD shall be headed by an Administrator. 
Sec 67. Functions. The OGD shall have the following functions: 
1) Formulate and administer a comprehensive national civil protection and disaster risk 
reduction program; 
2) Formulate policies and prepare plans for the protection and security of the 
production, their property and environment, from all kinds of disasters; 
3) Estimate the total material manpower and fiscal requirements for carrying out the 
national civil protection and disaster risk reduction program, and provide the local 
government units and autonomous regions such aid in facilities, materials, and funds as 
may be available from the National Government; 


4) Develop and coordinate a program for informing, educating, and training the general 
public, volunteer workers, local government units and other critical groups, on civil 
protection rneasures and activities; 
5) Furnish guidance and technical assistance to the various provinces, cities, 
municipalities in the planning, organization, training and operation of the Local Disaster 
Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMC); 
6) Advise the Secretary of National Defense on matters concerning civil defense and 
make recommendations from time to time as may be deemed appropriate or as the 
Secretary may require; 
7) Provide secretariat and technical support services to the National Disaster 
Management Councils; and 
8) Perform such other duties as may be provided by law. 
Article 16. Philippine Veterans Affairs Office 
Section 68. Mandate. The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office shall administer the needs 
of veterans and their dependents and shall develop and maintain national military 
shrines. 
Section 69. Organization. The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office shall be headed by an 
, 
Administrator. 
Section 70. Functions. The Philippine Veterans Affairs office shall have the following 
functions: 
a) Formulate and promulgate, subject to the approval of the Secretary of National 
Defense, policies, rules, and regulations and 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 law; 
d) Provide administrative supervision of the Veterans Memorial Medical Center; 


e) Administer, develop, and maintain military shrines; 
f) Formulate policies conceming the affairs, placement and training of ex-servicemen, 
and assist their widows and dependents, and other retired military personnel; and 
g) Perform other functions as the Secretary of National Defense may direct. 
Article 17, National Defense University of the Philippines 
Section 71, Conversion of the NDCP, The National Defense College of the Philippines 
(NDCP) is hereby converted into the National Defense University of the Philippines 
(NDUP). To ensure the continuous operations of the College, all its personnel and 
resources thereof shall be absorbed by the NDUP. Salaries of its personnel shall be 
fixed or adj'usted at the discretion of the NDUP Academic Board within the limits of 
appropriatidn provided for the purpose, 
Section 72. Mandate. The NDUP shall maintain and develop such academic program 
of instruction and research as designed for the education and training of defense and 
national security leaders and managers and for NDUP to be the center of strategic 
studies on defense and security in the country. 
Section 73. Organization. The NDUP shall be headed by a President. 
Section 74. Functions. The NDUP shall have the following functions: 
1) Train and develop the skills and competence of 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 implementation of 
national security and for high command and staff duty; 
2) Confer postgraduate, graduate, and baccalaureate degrees in national security; and 
3) Engage in high-
grade research and studies as called for by its mission. 
administration and related fields. 
TITLE VIII. DEFENSE EDUCATION 
Section 75. Defense Education. Defense education shall be geared towards the 
development of professional and intellectually competent personnel at all levels of the 


defense establishment who are imbued with values, knowledge and skills necessary for 
the attainment of the country's security objectives. It shall actively promote, develop and 
complement' Philippine education and manpower resource development, particularly 
identifying ~roductive and potential personnel who shall be leaders, professionals, or 
staff workers endowed with nationalism and patriotism cognizant of the country's role as 
a member of the international community. Defense education and training shall be 
governed by the principles of sequential learning and jointness. 
Section 76. Defense Education and Training Board. The Secretary of National 
Defense shall constitute a Defense Education and Training Board from among the 
constituent offices of AFP and DND engaged in education and training activities. The 
DND Secretary shall appoint the chairman of the Board. 
TITLE IX. HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND SECURITY 
Article 18. Economic Security 
Section 77. The governrnent shall pursue an economic regime based on the principle of 
responsible entrepreneurship, social conscience, respect for the dignity of labor and 
concern for the public interest to achieve economic solidarity, strength and 
independence where people enjoy economic freedom. 
Article 19. Role of the Executive Offices 
Section 78, Role of the National Economic Development Authority,· The National 
Econornic and Development Authority shall primarily be responsible for formulating 
continuing, coordinated and fully integrated economic and social policies, plans and 
prograrns to promote economic growth and equitable distribution of the benefits of such 
growth to the rnembers of the society. 
I 
Section 79, Role of the Department of Finance,· The Departrnent of Finance shall be 
responsible for the formulation, institutionalization and administration of fiscal policies in 
coordination with other concerned subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities of 
government in support of the attainment of the government's development objectives. 
Section 80. Role of the Department of Foreign Affairs,· The Department of Foreign 
Affairs shall promote trade, investments, and other economic relations with other 
countries in cooperation with other government agencies and private sector. 


Section 81. Role of the Department of Trade and Industry.- The Department of 
Trade and Industry shall formulate and implement pOlicies, plans, and programs relative 
to the promotion, development, expansion and regulation of trade industry and 
investments. It shall pursue a trade policy that serves the general welfare and utilizes all 
forms and arrangements of exchange on the basis of equality and reciprocity. 
Section 82. Role of the Department of Agriculture.- The Department of Agriculture 
shall be responsible for the promotion of agricultural development by providing the 
policy framework, public investments, and support services needed for domestic and 
export oriented business enterprises. It shall take steps to improve farm income and 
generate work opportunities for farmers, fishermen and other rural workers. 
Section 83. Role of the Department of Tourism.- The Department of Tourism shall be 
charged with the responsibility to encourage, promote and develop tourism as a major 
socioeconomic activity to generate foreign currency and employment and to spread the 
benefits of tourism to wider segment of the population. 
I 
Section 84. Role of the Department of Energy.- The Department of Energy shall 
ensure a c6ntinuous and adequate supply of energy. It shall end~avor to achieve self· 
reliance in the country's energy requirements through the integrated and intensive 
exploration, production, management, development and sustainable utilization of the 
country's indigenous energy resources. 
Article 20. Political Dimension 
Section 85. Role of the Department of Interior and Local Government.- The 
Department of Interior and Local Government shall promote peace and order, ensure 
public safety and further strengthen the local government capability aimed towards the 
effective delivery of the basic services to the citizenry. 
Section 86. Local Government Units shall ensure the delivery of basic services to the 
citizenry. It shall promote the empowerment of the local citizenry in order to contribute to 
the attainment of political stability. 
Article 21. Socio- Cultural Dimension 
Section 87. Role of Educational Institutions. The Department of Education (DepEd), 
the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the 
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) shall be responsible in their respective areas 


for the formulation, planning and implementation and coordination of the policies, plans, 
programs and projects in formal and non- formal education; supervise all educational 
institutions; and provide for the establishment and maintenance of a complete, 
adequate and integrated system of education relevant to the goals of nation 
development. 
Section 88. The Role of the Department of Health.- The Department of Health shall 
, 
. 
be primarily responsible for the formulation, planning, implementation and coordination 
of the policies, plans and programs in the field of health. It shall promote, preserve, or 
restore the health of the people through the provision and delivery of health services 
and through the regulation and encouragement of the providers of health goods and 
services. 
Section 89. Role of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.- The 
Department of Social Welfare and Development shall provide a balanced approach to 
welfare whereby the needs and interests of the population are addressed pro- actively. 
Article 22. Techno- Scientific Dimension 
Section 90. Role of the Department of Science and Technology.- The Department 
of Science and Technology shall support and encourage public and private sector 
initiatives in science and technology and provide necessary incentives and assistance 
to enable the private sector to take increasing responsibility and a greater role in the 
country's research and development efforts. It shall provide central direction to all 
science and technology policies and shall ensure that the results therefrom are geared 
and utilized for maximum economic and social benefits. 
Section 91. Role of the Department of National Defense.- The Department of 
National Defense shall incorporate in every equipment acquisition contract, special 
foreign exchange reduction schemes such as counter trade, in-country manufacture, co-
production, or other innovative arrangements or combinations thereof, in order to 
generate employment opportunities and enhance technology transfer. 
I 
Section 92. Role of the Department of Trade and Industry.- The Department of 
Trade and Industry shall formulate the appropriate mechanics to guide and manage the 
transfer of appropriate industrial technology in the country. 


Section 93. Role of the Department of Transportation and Communications.- The 
Department of Transportation and Communications shall assess, review and provide 
direction to the transportation and communications research and development program 
of the government in coordination with other relevant institutions. 
Article 23. Ecological Dimensions 
Section 94. Role of the Department of Environment and National Resources.- The 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall be in charge in carrying out 
the 
state's 
constitutional 
mandate to 
control 
and 
supervise the exploration, 
development, utilization and conservation of country's natural resources. 
Section 95. Role of the Department of Agriculture.- The Department of Agriculture 
shall promulgate and enforce all laws, rules and regulations governing the conservation 
and proper utilization of agricultural and marine resources. 
Section 96. Role of the Educational Institutions. The DepEd, TESDA and CHED 
shall ensure that relevant learning on ecology are integrated in the system of education 
that includes formal, non-formal, indigenous learning and out-of-school study programs. 
Section 9l-
Role of the Department of Public Works and .Highways.- The 
Department of Public Works and Highways shall give due regard to the protection of the 
I 
ecology in the integrated planning for roads, flood control and water resource 
development systems, and other public works. 
Section 98. Role of the DND. The Department of National Defense shall take part in 
the preservation of national patrimony including the country's living and nonliving 
marine, sub marine, mineral, forest and other natural resources. 
Section 99. Role of the DOE. The Department of Energy, in the management of 
energy resources, shall ensure environmental protection and maintenance. 
Article 24. Human Welfare and Social Dimensions 
Section 100. Role of the Department of Labor and Employment.- The Department of 
Labor and Employment shall ensure that the rights of all workers to self- organization, 
collective bargaining negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right 


I 
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• 
to strike in accordance with the law. It shall promote the voluntary modes in settling 
disputes, including conciliation, and shall enforce their mutual compliance therewith to 
foster industrial peace. 
Section 101. Role of the Department of Health.- The Department of Health shall 
protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness 
among them; adopt an integral and comprehensive approach to health development, 
with priority for the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women and children; 
endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social services available to all 
people at affordable cost; establish and maintain an effective food and drug regulatory 
system; alld undertake appropriate health manpower development and research: 
responsive to the country's health needs and problems. 
Section 102. Role of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.- The 
Department of Social Welfare and Development shall provide a balanced approach to 
welfare whereby the needs and interests of the population are addressed not only at the 
outbreak of the crisis but more importantly at the stage which inexorably lead to such 
crisis. 
Section 103. Role of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.- The 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall promote equitable access to 
natural resources by the different sectors of population and enhance the contribution of 
natural resources for achieving national economic and social development. 
TITLE X. SECURITY AND DIPLOMACY 
Section 104. Role of the Department of Foreign Affairs.- The Department of Foreign 
Affairs shall be the lead agency in the planning, organizing, directing, coordinating and 
evaluating the total national effort in the field of foreign relations. Other agencies, in 
consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, may initiate bilateral or multilateral 
cooperative activities in their respective areas of concern with other countries. 
Article 25. Separability and Repealing Clauses 
Section 105. Separability Clause. If for any reason, any provision of this Act is 
declared ihvalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions not affected thereby shall 
continue to be in full force and effect. 


<"', 
.... 
I 
Section 106. Repealing Clause. All laws, decrees, executive orders, proclamation, 
rules and regulations, and other issuances, or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with 
the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
Section 107. Effectivity. This Act shall lake effect fifteen (15) days after its publication 
in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,