FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINE§ 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
>
-
 
S E N A T E  
S. 6. 
No. 4 
~ 
~~ 
Introduced by Sen. Gregorio B. Honasan 
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 specter 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 fhe East-West divide has 'likewise paved for the systemic 
restructuring 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 a& th$$e<national economy- enhanced by advances in 
science and technology: warrant the':s&rch for .a new 'approach to security, one that 
covers non-military conCernS such as econpmic, 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 those that originate horn 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' century. The country is 
bereft of a Comprehensive National Security Plan. For fifty-nine (59) 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 needs a realistic, coherent and purposive blueprint to ensure the 
country's defense and development. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sough J 
GRE 
RiO B. HONASAN 
F e n a t  or 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
81 
~~ 
Introduced by Senator Gregorio B. Honasan 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR A NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY AND PLANNING FRAMEWORK 
AND CREATING AN INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS FOR 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 2007 .’I 
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; 
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; 
Promote social cohesiveness among its people through education and 
participation in national development; 
2) 
3) 


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; 
Encourage people’s participation in national development and provide 
climate for free exercise of political rights; 
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; 
Support and encourage initiatives in. science ad technology and achieve 
technological self-reliance in selected areas that are vital to national 
development; 
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; 
Ensure full protection to labor in terms of optimum working conditions, fair 
compensation, security of tenure and right to organization. 
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, 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; 
Ensure the car, 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 
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 
(b) For the defense of the State all citizens may be required to render personal 
authority; 
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 the 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; 
(9) The security of the State shall be guaranteed to the mobilization of its citizens 
(h) The integration of civilian and military personnel and resources shall underlie 
and resources; and 
defense policy and structure 
Article 2 
Definition of Terms 
Section 4. Definitions. - Under this Act the following terms shall mean: 
?. 
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. 
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. 
Strategy - refers to a plan of action that organizes efforts to 
achieve objectives with the ways and means of achieving those 
ends. 
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. 
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 I or 
objectives. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 


Title II: NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY 
Article 3 
Defining the Rationale I Objectives of a National Security Strategy 
Section 5. Principles I 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 basic elements - ends, ways, and means - and the process 
that govern 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 
international 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 vision, 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 requiring the 
employment of armed forces shall be addressed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines 
and the Philippine National Police. 
TITLE 111 . IMPLEMENTlNG 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: 
The President; 
The Vice-president ; 
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs ; 
The Executive Secretary 
The Secretary of National Defense: 
The Secretary of Interior and Local Government; 
The Secretary of Justice; 
The Director-General of the National Economic Development Authority; 
The National Security Adviser 
The Chairman of the Committee on National Defense and Security of both 
Houses of Congress; and 


k) 
Other government officials and private citizens whom the President may 
designate from time to time. 
The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Director-General of 
the Philippine National Police shall serve as adviser to the council. 
Section 9. Chairman of the National Security Council.- The President shall 
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 I O .  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 government on matters relating 
to national security, including such rules that will govern the conduct of 
information and intelligence gathering collation and analysis by agencies 
and officials involve in national security; 
c) Ensure integration of relevant domestic and foreign policies relating to 
national security to enable all departments and agencies of the 
government to cooperate more effectively on matters involving national 
security. 
of intelligence; and 
e) Exercise oversight function over the NIA. 
d) Provide guidance to the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) on the conduct 
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 consideration 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 Councii shall be hereinafter referred to as the National Security 
Adviser. He shall be assisted by a Deputy who shall be appointed by and shall serve at 
the pleasure 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 and 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 NATIONAL 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 NICA. - The National Intelligence 
Coordinating Agency (NICA) is hereby converted into the National Intelligence Agency 
(NIA). To ensure the continuity of NICKS 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 National Intelligence Agency (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. Both officials shall be appointed by the President. 
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, 
4) Coordinate with the various government agencies and instrumentalities to 
comprehensive and timely intelligence to end users; 
provide information and assistance of its mandate. 


5) Maintain and operate a communication and information operations 
6) Performs such other functions and duties related to intelligence affecting the 
national security as the President or the National Security Council may 
direct. 
infrastructure; and 
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. 
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 governed 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 Police; 
c. Secretary of Transportation and Communication 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 Armed Forces of the 
Philippines. 
Article 7. The Department of National Defense (DND) 
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 
(c) Perform other functions as may be provided by law or assigned by higher 
for national defense; and 
authorities on the Line of Authority. 
Section 29. The Armed Forces of 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 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 
(AFPWSSU's), 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 Staff. 
(a) The AFP Chief of Staff shall exercise command and control over ail elements of 
the AFP. He shall 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, 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 combat and service forces and such other units 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 39. Functions-The Philippine Army shall have the following functions: 


(a) Prepare such units such as maybe 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 
(9 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 accomolish 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 
(9 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. The SND 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, trough the Secretary of National Defense, any 
changes to such mission, area of responsibility, and organization. 
Article 13. Reserve Force 
Section 49. Mobilization of the Resewe 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; 
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 utilization of any private entity necessary for the 
implementation of the mobilization shall be paid by the National Government. 
Section 51. Duration of Mobilization. The President may call for mobilization 
for a period not exceeding 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 53. Reserve Force Readiness Evaluation. Reserve 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, international commitments and legislative actions 
necessary to implement the national security strategy of the country; and 
c) Short, medium 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 
objcctives, 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. The administration of the Armed Forces shall be the responsibility of 
the Secretary of National Defense. 
Section 61. Personnel Policies. Personnel policies and administration shall be 
in accordance with the following principles: 
1. Recruitment to the Armed Forces shall be governed 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 shall 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 of the corporations that it owns or control, 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 
c) Design, develop, manufacture, stockpile, and allocate arms and munitions 
without the necessity of obtaining any permits or licenses; 
d) In case of 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. 
and munitions; 
Article 15. Office of Civil Defense 
Section 65. Mandate. The office of the Civil Defense 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 as integrated, multi-sectoral and community 
based approaches and strategies. 
Section 66. Organization. The Office of Civil Defense shall be headed by an 
Administrator. 


Sec 67. Functions. The Office of Civil Defense shall have the following 
functions: 
1) Formulate and administer a comprehensive national civil protection and disaster 
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 measures and activities; 
risk reduction program; 
5) Furnish guidance and technical assistance to the various provinces, cities, 
municipalities in the planning, organization, training and operation of the local 
Disaster Management Councils; 
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 
8) Performs such other duties as may be provided by law. 
Management Councils; and 
Section 68. Renaming of the NDCC. The National Disaster Coordinating 
Council (NDCC) and the other Disaster Coordinating Councils established under 
Presidential Decree No. 1566 are hereby renamed as the National Disaster 
Management Council (NDMC) and Regional, Provincial, City, and Municipality and 
Barangay Disaster Management Council, respectively. 
The NDMC shall remain under the Office of the President. 
Article 16. Philippine Veterans Affairs Office 
Section 69. Mandate. The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office shall administer the 
needs of veterans and their dependents and,shall develop and maintain national military 
shrines. 
Section 70. Organization. The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office shall be 
headed by an Administrator. 


Section 71. Functions. The Philippine Veterans Affairs office shall have the 
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; 
following functions: 
b) Adjudicate and administer benefits, pensions and other privileges granted to 
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; 
9 Formulate policies concerning the affairs, placement and training of ex- 
servicemen, and assist their widows an'd dependents, and other retired military 
personnel; and 
veterans, their heirs and beneficiaries; 
g) Perform other functions as the Secretary of National Defense may direct. 
Article 17. National Defense University of the Philippines 
Section 72. Conversion of the NDCP. The National Defense College of the 
Philippines is hereby converted into the National Defense University of the Philippines. 
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 
adjusted at the discretion of the NDUP Academic Board within the limits of appropriation 
provided for the purpose. 
Section 73. Mandate. The National Defense University of the Philippines 
(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 74. Organization. The NDUP shall be headed by a President. 
Section 75. 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 
3) Engage in high- grade research and studies as called for by its mission. 
administration and related fields; and 
TITLE VIII. DEFENSE EDUCATION 
Section 76. 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 productive 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 77. 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 78. The government 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 79. 
Role of the NEDA. The National Economic and Development 
Authority shall primarily be responsible for formulating continuing, coordinated and fully 
integrated economic and social policies, plans and programs to promote economic 
growth and equitable distribution of the benefits of such growth to the members of the 
society. 


Section 80. Role of the DOF. The Department 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 31. Role of the DFA. 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 82. Role of the DTI. 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 83. Role of the DA. 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 84. Role of the DOT. The Department of Tourism shall be charged with 
the responsibility to encourage, promote and develop tourism as a major socio- 
economic activity to generate foreign currency and employment and to spread the 
benefits of tourism to wider segment of the population. 
Section 85. Role of the DOE. The Department of Energy shall ensure a 
continuous and adequate supply of energy. It shall endeavor 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 86. Role of the DILG. 
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 87. 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 88. Role of Educational Institutions. The Department of Education, 
TESDA and the Commission of 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 89. The Role of the DOH. 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 90. Role 'of the DSWD. 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 91. Role of the DOST. 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 92. Role of the DND. 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. 
Section 93. Role of the DTI. 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 94. Role of the DOTC. The Department of Transportation and 
Communication 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 95. Role of the DENR. 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 96. Role of the DA. 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 97. Role of the Educational Institutions. The Department of 
Education, TESDA and CHED shall ensure that relevant learnings on ecology are 
integrated in the system of education that includes formal, non-formal, indigenous 
learning and out-of-school study programs 
Section 98. Role of DPWH. The Department of Public Works and Highways 
shall give due regard to the protection of the ecology in the integrated planning for 
roads, flood control and water resource development systems, and other public works. 
Section 99. Role of the DND. The Department of National Defense shall take 
part in the preservation of national patrimony including the country’s living and non- 
living marine, sub marine, mineral, forest and other natural resources. 
Section 100. 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 101. Role of the DOLE. 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 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 102. Role of the DOH. 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 unprivileged, 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; and 
undertake appropriate health manpower development and research: responsive to the 
country’s health needs and problems. 
Section 103. Role of the DSWD. 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 104. Role of the DENR. 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 105. Role of the DFA. 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 multi lateral cooperative activities 
in their respective areas of concern with other countries. 


Article 25. Separability Clause and Repeals 
Section 106. Separability Clause. If for any reason, any provision of this Act is 
declared invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions not: affected thereby shall 
continue to be in full force and effect. 
Section 107. 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 108. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved