Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. _3390__

Introduced by HON. MARLO C. BANCORO.
First District, Zamboanga Sibugay

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The Philippines, an archipelagic nation with over 36,000 kilometers of coastline,
faces enormous maritime challenges that require a responsive, capable, and well-
resourced maritime law enforcement and regulatory agency.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is the key player in upholding the maritime
safety, maritime security, and marine environmental protection. It finds its basis on
Republic Act No. 9993, or the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, which provides the
legal foundation for the modern Coast Guard.

The evolving complexities of maritime situation and increasing security and
environmental threats, however, demand the institutional modernization of the PCG
through an updated legal framework. While RA No. 9993 served its purpose for its time,
significant policy gaps and organizational limitations hinder the PCG’s optimal
performance and operational readiness. This bill seeks to repeal and replace said law
with a more comprehensive and responsive legislative framework that will pave the way
for long-overdue reforms.

This proposed legislation, thus, aims to modernize and professionalize the PCG
by institutionalizing critical structural, personnel, and legal provisions. Among its key
provisions are the following:

1. Organizational Structure — Clearly delineates the service commands and
district units of the PCG, with a minimum manning level of three (3)
uniformed personnel per kilometer of coastline to ensure nationwide
presence and operational readiness.

2. Personnel Complement — Defines the ranks, grades, distribution of
officers, and rules on tenure in rank and position for both officers and
enlisted personnel to ensure merit-based and structured career

progression.
3. Legal Assistance ~ Ensures that PCG personnel receive legal aid when
charged with offenses arising from the performance of their duties.

4. Office of the Coast Guard Attaché — Creates a dedicated office to promote
international maritime cooperation and liaison with foreign coast guard
counterparts.


10.

1

13.

- Pay and Benefits — Aligns PCG compensation with their AFP and PNP

counterparts, ensuring parity in pay, allowances, and benefits for
uniformed personnel.

. Retirement and Separation — Establishes clear provisions on retirement,

separation, and corresponding benefits to safeguard the welfare of
personnel post-service.

. Justice System — Provides for the adoption of a military justice system for

uniformed personnel, while applying the CSC’s disciplinary rules for
civilian employees.

. Grounds for Dismissal — Specifies clear and enforceable grounds for

dismissal to maintain professional integrity and discipline.

. Coast Guard Internal Affairs Service — Establishes an independent unit

to uphold internal accountability and investigate misconduct within the
organization.

Lateral Entry Provisions — Authorizes the lateral entry of qualified
personnel from other uniformed services (AFP, PNP, BJMP, BFP) to the
PCG, strengthening its manpower pool.

|. Tax Exemption on Benefits - Grants exemption from attachment and

taxation of retirement and other personnel benefits, ensuring the full
receipt of entitlements.

. Authority to Accept Donations and Loans ~ Enables the PCG to receive

grants, loans, and donations from both local and foreign sources to
support its modernization, subject to proper government oversight.

Annual Appropriation — Provides for a yearly allocation to finance the
PCG Modernization Program.

To sum up, this bill marks a significant move towards modernizing and
strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard, enabling it to better safeguard the nation’s
maritime domain, serve coastal communities, protect the marine environment, and
contribute to regional maritime security.

This measure is a refiled version of numerous bills previously filed in the 19%
Congress which was approved on third reading at the House of Representatives and
transmitted to the Senate of the Philippines.

In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly

ATTY. RO

Page 2 of 2


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO. __ 3390

Introduced by HON. MARLO C. BANCORO
First District, Zamboanga Sibugay

AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD
BY INTRODUCING POLICY AND ORGANIZATIONAL REFORMS

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Revised Philippine
Coast Guard Law.”

SEC. 2, Philippine Coast Guard. - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG),
established under Republic Act (RA) No. 9993, otherwise known as the “Philippine Coast
Guard Law of 2009”, as an armed and uniformed service attached to the Department of
Transportation (DOT®) shall continue as such upon the effectivity of this Act: Provided,
That in times of war, as declared by Congress, the PCG or parts thereof, shall be attached
to the Department of National Defense (DND).

ORGANIZATION

SEC. 3. Organization. - The PCG organizational structure shall be headed by a
Commandant with the rank of Admiral and shall be assisted by the Deputy Commandant
for Operations and Deputy Commandant for Administration, both with the rank of Vice
Admiral. It shall be organized into three (3) core functional commands, namely: Maritime
Safety Services Command, Marine Environmental Protection Command, and Maritime
Security Law Enforcement Command. To enhance the core functions of the PCG, it shall
be reinforced by support commands and service units categorized as follows:

a) Administrative support commands shall consist of the Education and Training,
Internal Affairs Service, Financial Management, Human Resource Management
Service and Logistics;

b) The operational support commands shall consist of the Fleet, Weapons,
Communications, Electronics and Information System Service, Special
Operations Force, Aviation Force, Civil Relations Service Command, Canine
Force, Intelligence Force, and other operational commands as may thereafter be
created as needed;

) The technical services shall consist of the Legal Service, Medical Service,
Ecumenical Service, Dental Service, Veterinary Service, Medical Administrative
Corps, Nurse Corps, and other technical services that may or hereinafter be

created as needed;
3


) Operating commands shall consist of the sixteen (16) districts located nationwide
covering specific areas of responsibilities composed of stations that shall have
field offices called sub-stations down to detachments or posts. These coast guard
districts are: National Capital Region-Central Luzon (CGD NCR-CL), Central
Visayas (CGD CV), Southwestern Mindanao (CGD SWM), Southeastern
Mindanao (CGD SEM), Palawan (CGD PAL), Western Visayas (CGD WV),
Southern Visayas (CGD SV), Southern Tagalog (CGD STL), Northern Mindanao
(CGD NM), Bicol (CGD BCL), Northwestern Luzon (CGD NWL), Eastern Visayas
(CGD EV), Northeastern Luzon (CGD NEL), Southern Mindanao (CGD SM),
Northeastern Mindanao (CGD NEM) and Coast Guard districts in Bangsamoro
Administrative Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDs BARMM): Provided, That the
PCG may create other new districts subject to existing laws; and

e) The Special Services consist of the Legislative Liaison Affairs, Internal Audit, and
Center for Strategic Studies.

In addition to the aforementioned basic structure of the PCG, the Commandant of
the PCG is authorized to reorganize, modify, or create districts, commands, services, or
units to enhance operational efficiency and command structure. Such changes shall be
subject to the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation and the approval of the
Department of Budget and Management (DBM), in accordance with applicable laws, rules
and regulations: Provided, That the minimum manning level of the PCG shall be sufficient
to support its mandate, which shall be filled in accordance with the enlistment schedule
approved by the DBM: Provided, further, That the functional commands, administrative
support units, operational support units, operating units, technical services and special
services shall be authorized and designated to perform all duties and functions of the PCG
within their individual areas of responsibility, including finance and procurement.

POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

SEC. 4. Powers and Functions of the PCG. - The PCG shall have the following
powers and functions:

a) Enforce regulations in accordance with all relevant maritime international
conventions, treaties or instruments and national laws for the promotion of safety
of life and property at sea within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines and
conduct port state control implementation;

b) Conduct random inspections on all merchant ships and vessels, including
inspections prior to departure, to ensure and enforce compliance with safety
standards, rules and regulations;

c) Detain, stop, or prevent a ship or vessel which does not comply with safety
standards, rules and regulations from sailing or leaving port;

) Conduct emergency readiness evaluation on merchant marine vessels;

e) Issue and enforce rules and regulations for the promotion of safety of life and
property at sea on all maritime-related activities, subject to the approval of the
Secretary of the DOTr;

f) Determine, fix or prescribe charges, rates, and penalties, as may be necessary, to
implement its provisions, as well as the provisions of laws, issuances, decrees, and
orders related to the implementation of PCG functions, subject to the approval of
the Secretary of the DOTr;


117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129

131
132

8) Coordinate, develop, establish, maintain, and operate aids to navigation, vessel
traffic system, maritime communications, and search and rescue facilities within
the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines;

h) Remove, destroy, or tow to port sunken or floating hazards to navigation,
including illegal fish traps and vessels, at or close to sea lanes which may cause
hazards to the marine environment;

i) Issue permits for the salvage of vessels and to supervise all marine salvage
operations and wreck removal, and to auction the abandoned vessels or wrecks to
defray the expenses of such removal, as well as prescribe and enforce rules and
regulations governing the same;

3) Render aid to persons and vessels in distress and conduct search and rescue
during maritime accidents within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines,
including the high seas, in accordance with applicable international conventions.
In the performance of this function, the PCG may enlist the services of other
government agencies and the merchant marine fleet;

k) Investigate and inquire into the causes of all maritime accidents involving death,
casualties and damage to properties;

1) In coordination with other relevant government agencies, enforce and maintain
maritime security, and prevent or suppress terrorism at sea, in accordance with
pertinent laws, rules and regulations;

m) Assist in the enforcement of laws on fisheries, immigration, tariff and customs,
forestry, firearms and explosives, human trafficking, dangerous drugs and
controlled chemicals, transnational crimes, and other applicable laws within the
maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines;

n) Board and inspect all types of merchant ships and watercrafts in the performance
of these functions;

0) Promulgate, administer, and enforce laws, rules and regulations for the protection
of marine environment and resources from offshore sources of pollution within
the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines;

p) Develop oil spill response, containment, and recovery capabilities against ship-
based pollution;

q) Grant, within the capabilities and consistent with its mandate, requests for
assistance of other government agencies in the performance of their functions;

r) Organize, train and supervise the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) for the purpose of
assisting the PCG in carrying out its mandated functions;

s) Recommend to the President of the Philippines the issuance of rules and
regulations pertaining to the assistance and support that the AFP should extend
to the PCG to enhance the latter’s capability during emergencies; and

t) Perform such other functions that may be necessary in the attainment of the
objectives of this Act.

‘THE PCG COMMANDANT

SEC. 5. The PCG Commandant. — The PCG shall be headed by a Commandant
who shall have the rank of Admiral: Provided, That he or she shall be appointed by the
President of the Philippines from among the Flag Officers in the Coast Guard service. He
or she shall hold a commandat-sea badge and must have served as District Commander
and Functional Service Commander, including other major commanders carrying the rank
of Vice Admiral. The Commandant shall have a maximum term of three (3) years which
shall commence on the date the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated by the


133
134
135
136
137

139

141

145

149

167
168
169
170
a7
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179

181
182
183

President. The PCG Commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon completion of the
maximum term or upon relief by the President.

SEC. 6. Powers and Functions of the Commandant. — The Commandant
shall exercise the following powers and functions:

a) Elaborate and execute the national maritime laws relating to the functions of the

b) Direct and control tactical as well as strategic movements, deployment,
placement, or utilization of the PCG or any of its units and personnel, including
its equipment, facilities and other resources: Provided, That the Commandant
may delegate this power to subordinate officials with respect to the units under
the latter’s command, subject to the guidelines as the Commandant may prescribe
in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations;

©) Prescribe, in accordance to existing laws, the organization or re-organization,
powers, functions, and duties of the various staff, services, installation, and other
units of the PCG;

4d) Issue policies and instructions regarding personnel, funds, properties, records,
correspondence, and such other matters as may be necessary to effectively carry
out the functions, powers and duties of the PCG, in accordance with existing laws,
rules and regulations;

e) Approve the recommendation of the different promotion or assignment boards
and ensure observance of merit and fitness in the process of promotion and
assignment;

f) Exercise disciplinary authority over all uniformed personnel and non-uniformed
personnel of the PCG; and

g) Perform any task or directive issued by the President of the Philippines: Provided,
That such command and direction of the Commandant may be delegated to
subordinate officials with respect to the units under the latter's respective
commands, subject to the guidelines as the Commandant may prescribe in
accordance with the rules and regulation prescribed under existing laws.

ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL

SEC. 7. Personnel. — The PCG shall consist of the following categories of
personnel:

a) Officer refers to a uniformed member of the PCG who is commissioned as officer
by the President of the Philippines or the Secretary of Transportation, as the case
may be, and belongs to the officers’ corps;

b) Non-officer refers to a general term for uniformed members of the PCG with ranks
below commissioned officers and performing jobs specific to their occupational
specialty. There are three classification of nonofficers, namely, strikers for those
in grades E-1 to E-3, junior noncommissioned officers for those in grades E-4 to
E6, and senior noncommissioned officers for ranks with equivalent grades of E-7
to E-10;

©) Non-uniformed personnel refers to permanent, temporary, contractual,
coterminous and casual civilian employees of the PCG whose appointments are
governed by the Civil Service laws, rules and regulations;

d) Probationary ensign refers to a person who is called to active duty but awaiting
commissionship into the PCG or awaiting training;


186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203

205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234

e) Draftee refers to a person who has completed basic training and is awaiting
enlistment into the PCG active service;

f) Cadet refers to a person who is enrolled in service academies under the
sponsorship of the PCG;

g) Candidate refers to a person who is undergoing training for commissionship; and

h) Trainee refers to a person who is undergoing training to qualify as member of the
non-officers’ corps of the PCG.

Provided, That the ranks and grades of all uniformed personnel in 12 the PCG,
whether officers or non-officers, shall be the same and equal as 13 that used and observed
in the AFP and the PNP.

SEC. 8. Ranks and Grades of PCG Officers. — The ranks and grades of PCG
Officers shalll be as follows:

RANK ACRONYM PAY GRADE
Admiral ADM 0-10
Vice Admiral VADM 0-9
Rear Admiral RADM 0-8
Commodore COMMO 0-7
Captain CAPT 0-6
Commander CDR 0-5
Lieutenant Commander LCDR 0-4
Lieutenant Senior Grade LTSG 0-3
Lieutenant Junior Grade LTJG 0-2
Ensign ENS On

SEC. 9. Technical Officers. — Other professionals that may join the PCG service
as technical officers are:

a) Lawyers;

b) Doctors;

c) Priests, Pastors, Imam, and other certified clerics;
d) Dentists;

e) Veterinarians; and

f) Nurses

Provided, That any applicant holding the degree of any of the abovementioned
professions shall have qualified and passed the appropriate licensure examination, when
applicable, of the respective professions to be qualified for entry into the Coast Guard
service: Provided, however, That other board professions not listed above may still be
recruited as part of the technical stream upon verification of the PCG of its need thereof.

SEC. 10. Officer Rank Distribution. - The officer rank distribution of the PCG
shall be as follows: two per centum (2%) in the Flag Officer rank; six per centum (6%) in
the rank of Captain; twelve per centum (12%) in the rank of Commander; eighteen per
centum (18%) in the rank of Lieutenant Commander; twenty per centum (20%) in the
rank of Lieutenant Senior Grade; and forty-two per centum (42%) in the ranks of
Lieutenant Junior Grade and Ensign: Provided, That such distribution is based on the
ratio between officers and non-officers, which is one (1) officer for every seven (7) non-
officers: Provided, further, That if the actual number in a rank is less than the number

7


235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242

257

259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
2m
272
273
274
275
276
277

prescribed in a lower rank, the difference may be applied as an increase to the number
prescribed in the lower rank.

SEC. 11. Distribution of Flag Officers. - Other than the Commandant who
occupies the rank of Admiral, the total number of flag ranks shall not exceed two (2)
percent of the total population of officers distributed observing the pyramidal structure as
hereunder prescribed:

Vice Admiral 0.15%
Rear Admiral 0.35%
Commodore 1.50%

Total 2.00%

Provided, That if the actual number in a rank, except in the case of Coast Guard
Admiral and Vice Admiral, is less than the number herein prescribed, the difference may
be applied as an increase to the number prescribed in the lower rank: Provided, further,
‘That no officer shall be promoted to the rank of Commodore or higher unless there is an
existing vacancy, and the officer is occupying a position in the table of organization that
requires the rank which is being considered for promotion.

SEC. 12. Maximum Tenure in Rank. — The maximum tenure of officers in the
ranks of Captain and Flag Officer in the PCG are hereby prescribed as follows:

Rank Maximum Tenure in Rank
Admiral three (3) years
Vice Admiral three (3) years
Rear Admiral three (3) years
Commodore five (5) years
Captain ten (10) years

Unless earlier separated, retired, or promoted to the next higher rank or occupying a
position calling for the higher rank in the PCG Table of Organization, Captains and Flag
Officers shall be retired upon the attainment of the maximum tenure in rank herein
prescribed, or upon reaching the age of compulsory retirement whichever comes earlier:
Provided, That Captains or flag officers who have not reached the age of retirement shall
be retired due to attrition if they have at least twenty (20) years in service, otherwise it
shall be separation from service.

SEC. 13. Maximum Tenure in Position of the Commandant. — The
Commandant is hereby limited to a maximum tenure of three (3) years, unless otherwise
earlier relieved by the President or competent authority.

SEC. 14. Ranks and Grades of Non-officers. — The ranks and pay grades of
PCG non-officers shall be as follows:

RANK ACRONYM. PAY GRADE
First Master Chief Petty Officer FMCPO E+10
Master Chief Petty Officer MCPO E-9
Senior Chief Petty Officer SCPO ES


278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298

Chief Petty Officer cPo E7

Petty Officer First Class PO. E-6
Petty Officer Second Class PO2 E-5
Petty Officer Third Class PO3 E-4
Seaman/Seawoman First Class SN1/SW1 E-3
Seaman/Seawoman Second Class SN2/SW2 E2
Apprentice Seaman/Seawoman ASN/ASW E-1

SEC. 15, Maximum Tenure in Rank for Non-officers. — The maximum tenure
of senior non-officers in the ranks of Chief Petty Officer to First Master Chief Petty Officer
in the PCG are as follows:

Rank Maximum Tenure in Rank
First Master Chief Petty Officer Three (3) years
Master Chief Petty Officer Five (5) years
Senior Chief Petty Officer Eight (8) years
Chief Petty Officer Ten (10) years

Any non-officer holding lower ranks than the above who stays in a rank for ten (10)
years without being promoted to the next higher rank shall be evaluated by the Re-
enlistment Fitness Board who shall verify suitability to continue in service and submit a
recommendation for the approval of the Commandant: Provided, That the original
enlistment term in the PCG shall be three (3) years and subsequent re-enlistment shall be
for the term of six (6) years, with the application for re-enlistment to be reviewed by the
Re-enlistment Fitness Board for recommendation to the Commandant for approval:
Provided, further, That the uniform allowance shall be payable every three (3) years after
complying with the physical fitness test.

SEC. 16. Non-uniformed Personnel. ~ There shall be non-uniformed ersonnel
positions in the PCG. The head of the non-uniformed personnel shall occupy a rank of
Director III and shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines upon
recommendation of the Commandant. The Commandant shall determine the additional
plantilla positions required for the purpose subject to the evaluation and approval of the
DBM in accordance with the civil service and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 17. Appointments. — The appointment of the PCG Commandant and Flag
Officers shall be approved by the President of the Philippines upon the recommendation
of the Secretary of the DOTr.

Appointments of all PCG non-officers shall be made by the PCG Commandant.
Appointments of PCG officers, which shall be in the initial rank of Coast Guard Ensign
shall be through a commissionship into service by the DOTr Secretary upon the
recommendation of the Commandant.

The initial entry ranks for technical officers like lawyers, medical doctors, and
ecumenical clerics shall be Lieutenant Senior Grade; dentists and veterinarians shalll be
Lieutenant Junior Grade; while nurses shall be commissioned to the rank of Ensign.
‘Appointment of other technical professions that may be required later shall be based on


320

367

the academic attainment or ranking in licensure examination results issued by competent
authority.

Appointments as well as the promotion of all non-uniformed personnel shall be in
accordance with Civil Service Commission (CSC) laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 18. Basic Qualification for Uniformed Personnel. - To qualify as
officer or non-officer of the PCG, the applicant, at the time of application:

a) Must be a natural born citizen of the Philippines;

b) Must be a person of good moral conduct;

c) Must have passed the psychiatric, psychological, drug, and physical tests to be
administered by the PCG Medical Service or by any PCG accredited government
hospital for the purpose of determining physical and mental health;

d) Must possess a formal baccalaureate degree, with appropriate license when
applicable or professional civil service eligibility for appointment as officer, and
must have finished at least seventy-two (72) non-repetitive units of college
education, or is a senior high school graduate with six (6) months Technical
Education and Skills Development Authority skills course related to the functions
of PCG for appointment as non-officers upon effectivity of this Act; and

e) Must not have been dishonorably discharged from military employment or
dismissed for cause from any non-uniformed personnel position in the
government.

SEC. 19. Promotions of Officers and Non-officers. — The promotion of PCG
officers and non-officers shall be based on merit and fitness in accordance with the
following procedures:

a) Officers shall only be promoted after undergoing deliberation before the
promotion boards: Provided, That the promotion boards shall submit the results
of their deliberation to the Commandant for approval and corresponding
endorsement to the Secretary of the DOTr for transmittal to the President of the
Philippines for approval; and

b) There shall also be appropriate promotion boards for non-officers whose
recommendation shall be submitted to the Commandant for approval.

Provided, further, That at the time of promotion, the officer or nonofficers concerned
shall possess all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications provided under
pertinent laws, rules and regulations, specifically on the completion of required career
course, training, examination and minimum time-in-grade as applicable for specific ranks.

Provided, finally, That except for the position of Commandant, no other officer shall
be promoted, assigned or designated to the rank of Commodore or higher if he has less
than one (1) year of active service remaining prior to compulsory retirement.

SEC. 20. Gender Sensitivity Program. — Gender concerns shall be addressed
in all planning activities, setting of priorities, allocating of resources, and identifying
actions and activities of the PCG. It shall also incorporate a gender sensitive perspective
in the implementation of such plans and programs.

Gender sensitivity shall also be mainstreamed in all its internal policies, strategies,
budget, projects, structures and mechanisms, including hiring, promotions, assignment,
10


422

training opportunities, pay and benefits. A gender perspective shalll likewise be integrated
in all its training programs, especially for maritime search and rescue.

SEC. 21. PCG Insignia, Decorations and Awards. - The PCG shall have its
own insignia and badges to denote rank, specialty, and assignment including uniforms,
decorations, and awards, all of which shall be submitted to the National Historical
Institute for registration in the flags and heraldic list: Provided, That there shall be an
established awards system which shall be administered by the PCG under such rules and
regulations as may be promulgated with the approval of the Secretary of the DOTY.

SEC. 22. Legal Assistance. — The Secretary of the DOTr or the Commandant of
the PCG may authorize lawyers of their respective agencies to provide legal assistance to
any member of the PCG charged with an offense or crime resulting from the performance
or on occasion of official duty. The government lawyers so authorized shall have the power
to administer oaths.

The legal officers duly authorized to handle, litigate, and appear for the PCG
personnel herein shall be entitled to receive a special counsel allowance (SCA) or lawyer's
incentive pay (LIP) amounting to not more than fifty percent (50%) of their base pay which
shall be included in the pay slip of said legal officer for the duration of the case in court.

There shall be a prosecution and litigation unit to handle and monitor all cases filed
for or against the PCG or its personnel in relation to the performance of PCG functions.
Legal officers assigned therein shall automatically be entitled to SCA or LIP.

SEC. 23. Power to Administer Oath. — Officers of the PCG in the active service
with the grade of O-5 or when designated with appropriate orders as administrative officer
of a unit, shall have the power to administer oaths on matters which are connected with
the performance of their official duties. Senior non-commissioned officers, those with
grades E-7 to E10, who are designated through appropriate orders, as Chief Master-At-
Arms (CMAA) or unit master chief are also empowered to administer oaths.

SEC. 24. Maritime and Coast Guard Attaché. — Subject to existing laws, rules
and regulations, the PCG may designate a maritime and coast guard attaché in the
International Maritime Organization, other international institutions, or as member of
diplomatic missions or embassies upon the recommendation of the Secretary of
Transportation.

‘The assignment or deployment of the maritime or coast guard attaché shall be with
the prior approval of the Secretary of Foreign
Affairs.

PAYS, ALLOWANCES, AND BENEFITS

SEC. 25. Salaries and Other Benefits. — The uniformed personnel of the PCG
shall receive the same base pay, hazard pay, and other benefits and allowances as are now
or hereafter may be authorized for corresponding salary grades and ranks in the AFP. The
salaries and allowances of the non-uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be in accordance
with existing Salary Standardization Law and CSC laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 26. Longevity Pay and Allowances. — Uniformed personnel of the PCG
shall be entitled to a longevity pay of ten percent (10%) of their basic monthly salaries for

ve


423
424
425
426
427
428
429
430
431
432
433
434
435
436
437
438
439

4a.
442
443

44s
446
4a7

449
450
451
452
453
454
455
456
457
458
459
460
461
462
463
464
465

467

469
470
a7.
472
473
474

every five (5) years of continuous active service, which shall be reckoned from the date of
actual service in the PCG: Provided, That the totality of such longevity pay shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%) of the basic pay. They shall also continue to enjoy the subsistence
allowance, quarters allowance, clothing allowance, cost of living allowance, hazardous
duty pay and other collateral allowances but not limited to sea duty pay, flying pay, special
counsel allowance, occupational specialty pay, instructors duty pay, combat pay for
officers and non-officers of the PCG performing combat duties or activities or engaged in
actual performance of duties as defined in regulations to be issued by the Commandant
and all other applicable allowances as provided by existing laws: Provided, further, That
the PCG shall, subject to approval of the President of the Philippines, issue a specific policy
pertaining to collateral allowances for specific duties actually performed. All collateral
allowances shall be reflected in the pay slip of qualified personnel.

SEC. 27. Uniformed Personnel Missing in Action. - The survivors of any
officer or non-officer who, while in the performance of duty, is officially confirmed missing
in action, kidnapped or captured by lawless elements shall be entitled to receive the same
pay and allowances to which such officer or non-officer is entitled from the time of the
latter's disappearance: Provided, That the compulsory retirement of an absentee, in
applicable cases, shall be processed to allow the survivors to enjoy the retirement benefits:
Provided, further, That should the Commandant, upon the recommendation of the proper
authority or immediate supervisor, subsequently rule that the officer or non-officer
concerned has been absent from duty without authority, such member or the latter’s
survivors shall reimburse the PCG all such amount and allowances that have been received
in accordance with this section and other pertinent sections of this Act.

SEC. 28. Emergency and Medical Assistance. ~ The PCG shall have an
emergency medical assistance fund, sourced from the PCG’s Annual Budget Plan as
reflected in the General Appropriations Act for hospitalization, operation, medication, and
rehabilitation of personnel arising from injuries and illnesses suffered on occasion of or in
the performance of official functions to be used exclusively in areas not serviceable by the
PCG Hospital.

ACTIVE SERVICE AND SEPARATION

SEC. 29. Active Service. — For purposes of this Act, active service of the
uniformed personnel shall refer to services rendered as an officer and non-officer, cadet,
trainee, or draftee in the PCG and services rendered as a non-uniformed personnel in the
Philippine Government prior to the date of separation or retirement from the PCG:
Provided, That, for purposes of retirement, the personnel shall have rendered at least ten
(10) years of active service as officer or non-officer in the PCG: Provided, further, That no
period of such non-uniformed personnel’s government service longer than the active coast
guard service shall be credited for purposes of retirement. Service rendered as cadet in
any service academy in the Philippines or abroad under the sponsorship of the PCG such
as the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, probationary officer, draftee, or trainee shall
be included in computing the years in active service for retirement purposes if such
personnel joins the service right after graduation.

SEC. 30. Retirement. — Upon attaining fifty-seven (57) years of age or
accumulation of thirty (30) years of continuous satisfactory active service, whichever
comes later, a PCG uniformed personnel shall be compulsorily retired: Provided, That
technical officers may extend their tenure of service up to sixty (60) years or until having
accumulated twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service, whichever comes later:

12


475
476
477
478
479

481
482
483

485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503

505

507

509
510
511
512
513
514
515
516
5817
518
519
520
521
522
523
524
525

Provided, further, That the Commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon the
completion of the tour of duty as provided under Section 13 of this Act or upon relief by
the President.

Any officer or non-officer may choose to retire on their own option upon
accumulating at least twenty (20) years in active service.

For purposes of this Act, an officer or non-officer who dies after having accumulated
at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service shall be considered as retired.

The retirement of non-uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be governed by the
Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) law, rules and regulations.

SEC. 31. Separation. — Separation from the Coast Guard service may be done
through compulsory retirement, optional retirement upon reaching twenty (20) years in
service, disability discharge, expiration of enlistment term, voluntary resignation,
attrition, dismissal for cause, or death.

The separation of non-uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be governed by the Civil
Service law, rules and regulations.

SEC. 32. Attrition. — There shall be established a system of attrition within the
uniformed members of the PCG within one (1) year from the effectivity of this Act to be
submitted by the PCG to the President of the Philippines for approval.

SEC. 33. Retirement Benefits. — An officer or uniformed personnel who is
retired under Section 30 of this Act, or the retiree’s qualified survivors, are entitled to
receive, and may choose from, any of the following applicable benefits:

a) Gratuity Pay. — A lump sum payment of gratuity pay equivalent to one (1) month
of base and longevity pay computed based on one (1) grade higher than the
permanent salary grade last held for every year of service; or

b) Retirement Pay — A monthly retirement pay equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of
monthly base and longevity pay computed based on one grade higher than the
permanent salary grade last held by the personnel in case of twenty (20) years of
active service, increasing by two and onehalf percent (22%) for every year of
service rendered beyond twenty (20) years up to a maximum of ninety percent
(90%) for thirty-six (36) years of active service and over.

Provided, That non-officers who attain the rank of Chief Petty Officer, Senior Chief
Petty Officer and of Master Chief Petty Officer shall, upon retirement, be entitled to the
retirement pay and benefits of an Ensign: Provided, further, That a Master Chief Petty
Officer shall receive a gratuity equivalent to that of an Ensign plus one-half (1/2) of the
difference between the gratuity of an Ensign and a Chief Petty Officer; a Senior Chief Petty
Officer shall receive a gratuity equivalent to that of an Ensign plus one-half (1/2) of the
difference between the gratuity of a Master Chief Petty Officer and a Chief Petty Officer;
while a First Master Chief Petty Officer shall be retired with the rank of Ensign but with
the retirement pay and benefits of a Lieutenant Junior Grade (O-2), as provided for in
existing laws: Provided, furthermore, That, upon retirement, officers and non-officers are
entitled to receive monthly retirement pay upon retirement, or may opt to receive a lump
sum equal to thirty-six (36) months of the monthly retirement pay and three years

13


550

563

567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575
576
577

thereafter shall receive an annual retirement pay payable in equal monthly installment as,
they accrue.

The retirement pay of officers and non-officers who are killed in action or wounded
in action resulting in total permanent disability shall be computed at the rate of ninety
percent (90%) of the monthly base and longevity pay based on one grade higher than the
permanent salary grade last held by the personnel regardless of years in active service.

The retirement pay of all PCG uniformed personnel retirees shall be subject to
adjustment on the prevailing scale of base pay of uniformed personnel in the active service.

‘The retirement benefits of non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by applicable
Civil Service laws and regulations and the GSIS Law.

SEC. 34. Separation Pay. — Officers and non-officers separated from the PCG
without having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service, or
their qualified survivors, shall receive a separation pay equivalent to one-month base plus
longevity pay based on the permanent salary grade the officer and non-officer holds at the
time of separation for every year of active service: Provided, That in the case of an officer
in the grade of Captain or higher who incurs physical disability in the line of duty, the basis
of the separation pay shall be one grade higher than the salary grade held by such officer
at the time of separation: Provided, further, That cadets, candidates, trainees, or draftees
who voluntarily resign from service shall not be entitled to any separation pay.

The separation benefits of non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by applicable
Civil Service laws and regulations and the GSIS Law.

SEC. 35. Benefits for Death and Total Permanent Disability in the Line
of Duty or During Training. — Qualified survivors of officers and non-officers,
including cadets, candidates, trainees and draftees who died in the line of duty without
having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service are entitled to
a monthly life annuity, equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the base and longevity pay
computed based on one grade higher than the permanent salary grade last held by the
deceased officer and non-officer at the time of death: Provided, That survivors of cadets,
candidates, trainees, and draftees who died during training through their own fault or
negligence shall not be entitled to this benefit.

Officers or non-officers, including cadets, candidates, trainees, and draftees who
suffer total permanent physical disability in the line of duty or during training without
having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service shall be entitled
to a monthly life annuity, equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the base and longevity pay
computed based on one grade higher than the permanent salary grade last held by the
officer or non-officer when the disability occurred: Provided, That the extent of the
disability or sickness which renders such member unfit or unable to further perform the
duties of the position held shall be certified by the appropriate government hospital like
the Philippine General Hospital: Provided, further, That cadets, candidates, trainees and
draftees who suffer total permanent physical disability during training through their own
fault or negligence shall not be entitled to this benefit.

The death and disability benefits of non-uniformed personnel shalll be governed by
applicable Civil Service laws and regulations and the GSIS Law.

14


578
579

581
582
583

585
586
587

589
590
591
592
593
594
595
596
597
598
599

601
602
603

605

607

610
611
612
613
614
615
616
617
618
619
620
621
622
623
624
625
626
627
628
629

SEC. 36. Survivors. — The family of deceased officers or non-officers who are alive
may claim benefits after such uniformed personnel dies in line of duty or when the
pensioner dies. The following criteria shall apply:

a) Surviving spouse if married to the deceased prior to the latter’s retirement or
separation and not legally separated by judicial decree from the deceased issued
on grounds not attributable to said spouse: Provided, That the spouse’s
entitlement of benefits shall terminate when the spouse dies, remarries, cohabits,
or engages in a common-law relationship;

b) Surviving children of officers or non-officers born of marriage contracted prior to
retirement or separation from the service, surviving children adopted legally prior
to retirement or separation, illegitimate children born while the deceased parent
was still on active service: Provided, That entitlement to benefits shall terminate
when such children attain twenty-one (21) years of age or upon marriage:
Provided, further, That those who have reached the age of twenty-one (21) years
but are incapacitated and incapable of self-support due to a mental or physical
defect acquired prior to age of majority shall remain entitled to the benefits; and

) In default of those mentioned in paragraph (a) and (b), the surviving parent or
parents.

As regards question of filiation involving survivor-claimants, the same shall be
submitted first by the claimants to a competent court for determination before benefits
can be given.

SEC. 37. Survivorship Benefits. — The qualified survivors are entitled to a
monthly annuity equivalent to seventy-five percent (75%) of the officer or non-officer’s
retirement or separation benefits, to be divided among them in equal shares and with the
right of accretion.

Survivorship benefits for non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by the GSIS
Law.

SEC. 38. Disability Pension. — In addition to the other benefits under this Act,
an officer or non-officer who is retired or separated by reason of disability, which is the
proximate result of wounds or injuries sustained or sickness or disease acquired in the line
of duty shall receive a monthly disability pension as follows:

a) If and while the disability is rated twenty-five percent (25%) — Five thousand

pesos (P5,000.00);
b) If and while the disability is rated fifty percent (50%) - Ten thousand pesos
(P10,000.00);
©) Ifand while the disability is rated seventy-five percent (75%) — Fifteen thousand
(P15,000.00); and
d) Ifand while the disability is rated one hundred percent (100%) — Twenty thousand
pesos (P20,000.00).

The officer or non-officer receiving the benefits under this Section may be required
to undergo periodic physical and medical examination to determine the extent of disability
for purposes of adjusting the disability pension.

SEC. 39. Old-Age Pension. - A retired PCG uniformed personnel who is at least
sixty-five (65) years of age shall be entitled to old-age pension amounting to Five thousand
15


630
631
632
633
634
635
636

639

pesos (P5,000.00) monthly and an additional amount of One thousand seven hundred
pesos (P1,700.00) monthly upon reaching the age of seventy (70): Provided, That only
retired PCG uniformed personnel who shall have been honorably discharged or retired
after at least twenty (20) years total PCG active service or sooner separated while in the
active service in the PCG due to disability arising or incurred in actual operations or
performance of duties are entitled to receive this monthly benefit.

SEC. 40. Application of Related Laws on Retirement and Separation of
Uniformed Personnel. — The retirement system under Presidential Decree (PD) No.
1638, as amended, and the provisions of RA 8220, RA 9365, and other similar applicable
laws, insofar as not inconsistent with applicable provisions of this Act, shall be given
suppletory effect.

SEC. 41. Incentives and Awards. — There shall be established an incentives and
awards system which shall be the same and equal as that used and observed in the AFP
and the PNP, including the Medalya ng Kagitingan (Medal of Valor) to be administered
by a board under such rules, regulations and standards as may be promulgated by the
PCG: Provided, That equivalent awards shall be given by the PCG for every award duly
given by respectable civic organizations in a nationwide selection for outstanding
achievement or performance of any member: Provided, further, That in the case of non-
uniformed personnel, the system of incentives and awards shall be approved and in
accordance with CSC laws, rules and regulations.

DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM

SEC. 42. Disciplinary System. — The PCG shall adopt the PCG Code of Conduct
which shall be applicable to all its uniformed personnel while non-uniformed personnel
shall be covered under the disciplinary rules of the Civil Service. The Commandant shall
be assisted by the Coast Guard Internal Affairs in enforcing discipline and order within its
ranks though for disciplinary issues depending on gravity, unit commanders shall exercise
disciplinary powers over personnel under their command.

The PCG shall, within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Act, issue policies,
rules and procedures applying the PCG Code of Conduct based on the provisions of
Commonwealth Act No. 408, as amended by RA 516, RA 242, PD 1968, and PD 1166:
Provided, That for non-uniformed personnel, the PCG shall issue rules and procedures
implementing Book VII of Executive Order No. 292 and applicable CSC laws,
administrative rules, and issuances: Provided, further, That in times of war, during which
the PCG or any of its offices is attached to the DND, the military justice system of the AFP
shall apply.

SEC.43. Disciplinary Authority. - The Commandant shall exercise disciplinary
authority at any time over all personnel of the PCG. The authority to discipline shall also
be exercised by unit commanders and Commanding Officers including Station
Commanders, Sub-Station Commanders, and head of Morning Report Carrying Units.

SEC. 44. Jurisdiction. - A complaint or a charge filed against a PCG member shall
be heard and decided exclusively by the disciplining authority who has acquired original
jurisdiction over the case, notwithstanding the existence of concurrent jurisdiction as
regards the offense.

16


681
682
683

698

701
702
703
704
705
706
707
708
709
710
711
712
713
714
715
716
7
718
ng
no

721
T2
n3
724
ns
726
R77
78
729
730
731

SEC. 45. Dismissal of PCG Personnel. — The Commandant, after due notice and
summary hearing, may immediately remove or dismiss any respondent PCG personnel,
and major unit commanders may recommend such in any of the following cases:

a) In cases of drug abuse where subsequent confirmation test confirms the use of
prohibited drugs;

b) When the charge is serious and the evidence of guilt is strong;

c) When the respondent is a recidivist or has been repeatedly charged and there are
reasonable grounds to believe that the respondent is guilty of the charges; and

d) When the respondent is guilty of a serious offense involving conduct unbecoming
a PCG personnel.

An officer or non-officer who is continuously absent without approved leave for at
least thirty (30) calendar days shall be considered on absence without official leave and
shall be presumed voluntarily resigned: Provided, That such officer or non-officer shall be
informed, by registered mail, at the address appearing on such officer's or non-officer’s
201 file not later than five (5) calendar days from the effectivity thereof.

The dismissal of PCG non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by Civil Service
laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 46. Coast Guard Inspector General and Internal Affairs Service
(CGIG-IAS). — To maintain accountability in government service through discipline and
efficiency, there shall be an Internal Affairs Service in the PCG. The CGIG-IAS shall foster
and promote accountability in government service within the PCG and follow the basic
principles of integrity, objectivity, independence, confidentiality, professionalism,
competence, courage, trust, honesty, fairness, forthrightness, public accountability’, and
respect for others and themselves. It shall have the power to investigate and inquire into
any and all activities of the PCG units and personnel, review processes, procedures and
operations to determine if such were conducted effectively and efficiently.

The personnel of the CGIG-IAS, whether officer or non-officer who are performing
actual investigative duties, including PCG personnel who perform investigative duties,
shall be granted occupational specialty pay which shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of
their basic pay and shall be reflected in their pay slip for the work performed: Provided,
That such personnel shall not be entitled to the occupational specialty pay under Section
26 hereof.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

SEC. 47. Organization of a POGA. - The PCG shall continue to maintain,
supervise, develop, and train the PCGA as a non-uniformed personnel volunteer
organization under the direct control and supervision of the PCG Commandant. The PCGA
shall assist the PCG in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea, the preservation
of the marine environment and its resources, the conduct of maritime search and rescue,
the maintenance of aids to navigation, and such other activities that enhance maritime
community relations which include civic action, participation under the National Service
Training Program, youth development, recreational safety, and other related activities.

SEC. 48. Coast Guard Reserve Force. — In accordance with existing laws, rules
and regulations, and the exercise of its powers and functions under Section 4 of this Act,

7


732
733
734
735
736
737
738
739
740
741
742
743
744
745
746
747

749

755

779

781
782

the PCG may establish a reserve force to augment the PCG force in the event of national
emergency or disaster, consistent with existing laws, rules and regulations. The PCG
reservist shall undergo regular training and shall be organized, trained, equipped, and
administered by a PCG Reserve Command under the direction of the Commandant and
whose members may be called to active duty in the exigency of the service. The PCG shall
adopt pertinent policies and guidelines for the purpose subject to the approval of the
President upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation.

SEC. 49. Lateral Entry. — Active members of other uniformed services under the
AFP, PNP, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and
Bureau of Corrections may join the PCG through lateral entry. The rank for officers eligible
for such entry must not be higher than Lieutenant Commander and Petty Officer Second
Class for non-officers. Notwithstanding the corps they wish to join, all entrants shall only
be accepted if, on or before time of entry, they are: a) not under investigation, b) not on
AWOL status, c) not serving sentence, whether administrative or criminal, d) have not
been issued reprimand in the last two (2) years, or e) have not received an unfavorable
rating in the latest performance rating.

However, if an entrant possesses specific skills that may not be readily developed in
new recruits, lateral entry may be allowed for ranks higher than those mentioned above:
Provided, That the new entrant can serve at least ten (10) years in PCG active service prior
to reaching the mandatory retirement age.

SEC. 50. Exemption from Attachment, Taxes, Duties, Charges, and Fees.
— Retirement benefits granted by this Act, including benefits received from a duly
instituted provident fund and mutual benefit association, shall not be subject to
attachment, levy, execution, or any tax of whatever nature, subject to the pertinent
provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended.

In the establishment and operation of radar and radio stations and other
communication facilities, the PCG shall not be subject to payment of charges and fees as
imposed by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC): Provided, That the
PCG shall only use frequencies as may be allowed or assigned by the NTC consistent with
international regulations and guidelines.

‘The PCG shall, in the performance of its functions, enjoy such rights and privileges
enjoyed by other governmental and law enforcement agencies, instrumentalities, and
government-owned and controlled corporations such as exemption from registration fees,
application for license, and payment of fees as imposed by other governmental agencies
or regulatory bodies.

The importation of instruments, equipment, machineries, spare parts, and
apparatuses shall be exempt from customs duties and taxes in accordance with the
provisions of Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the “Customs Modernization
and Tariff Act (CMTA).”

SEC. 51. Loans, Grants, Bequests and Donations. — The PCG may receive
grants, bequests, and donations and enter into loan agreements, whether from local or
foreign sources purposes relevant to its functions, subject to the provisions on donations
under the General Appropriations Act and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations.

18


783

785
786
787

789
790

792
793

795
796
797
798
799

801
802
803

805

807

809
810
811
812
813
814
815
816
817
818
819
820
821
822
823
824
825
826
827
828
829
830
831
832
833
834

The Secretary of the DOTr may enter into a loan agreement with foreign financial
institutions, subject to the provisions on loan agreements under the General
Appropriations Act and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 52. PCG Properties and Lighthouse Reservations. — The PCG shall
continue to exercise exclusive ownership, possession, management, control and
supervision over all properties transferred to it by virtue of Executive Order No. 475, dated
30 March 1998, and Executive Order No. 477, dated 15 April 1998, such as, inter alia,
vessels, watercrafts, firearms, armaments, munitions, communications and electronic
equipment, vehicles, buildings, real state, lighthouse stations, and reservations.

SEC.53. Establishment and Expansion of Coast Guard Bases, Equipment
and Facilities. — In coordination with other appropriate government agencies, the PCG
shall develop and enhance its capabilities in the performance of its mandated functions
and establish its strategic presence. To this end, the PCG shall, through the guidance of
Congress, draft its development plan that shall reflect its asset, equipment, and facility
requirement that includes floating assets, laboratories, land-based support facilities, land
mobility, arms and ammunition, rescue and hospital ship, maritime monitoring
surveillance and communications system, port facilities, air assets, and air stations.

SEC. 54. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - For submission to the
Secretary of the DOTr for approval, the PCG, not later than one hundred twenty (120) days
from the effectivity of this Act, shall issue rules and regulations, determine, fix or prescribe
charges, rates, and penalties, as may be necessary, to implement its provisions, as well as.
the provisions of laws, issuances, decrees and orders related to the implementation of PCG.
functions.

SEC. 55. Appropriations. — The amount necessary for the initial implementation
of this Act shall be charged against the current year’s appropriations of the PCG.
Thereafter, such amount shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 56. Transitory Provisions. - All previous appointments and promotions
of PCG uniformed personnel made prior to the enactment of this Act shall remain valid
and subsisting.

SEC. 57. Adjustment of Retirement Benefits and Pension Indexation. —
The retirement benefits of personnel affected by the implementation of Republic Act No.
9993, Joint Resolution No. 4, s. 2009, and Joint Resolution No. 1 s. 2018, shall be adjusted
as follows:

a) For non-officers whose retirement benefits were affected by the
implementation of Republic Act No. 9993, any discrepancies resulting
from the application of this Act and Republic Act No. 9993 shall be returned to
the retiree. This adjustment shall also apply to the indexation of pensions to base
pay scale adjustments affected by Republic Act No. 9993; and

b) The retirement benefits of personnel holding the ranks of admiral and vice
admiral, who were adversely affected by Joint Resolution No. 4, s. 2009, entitled:
“Joint Resolution Authorizing the President of the Philippines to Modify the
Compensation and Position Classification System of Civilian Personnel and the
Base Pay Schedule of Military and Uniformed Personnel in the Government, and
for Other Purposes,” and Joint Resolution No. 1 s. 2018, entitled: “Joint
Resolution Authorizing the Increase in Base Pay of Military and Uniformed

19


Personnel in the Government, and for Other Purposes”, shall be adjusted to align
with the benefits of their contemporary ranks of General and Lieutenant
General in the AFP and the PNP.

Furthermore, personnel affected by the aforementioned joint resolutions
shall be paid the corresponding difference in pay and allowances resulting from these
adjustments.

SEC. 58. Separability Clause. — If for any reason, any provision of this Act is
declared unconstitutional or invalid, such parts not affected thereby shall remain in full
force and effect.

SEC. 59. Repealing Clause. - RA 9993 is hereby repealed and all laws, decrees,
executive orders, rules and regulations and other issuances or parts thereof which are
inconsistent with this Act are likewise hereby repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.

SEC. 60. Effectivity. — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,

20