OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

OF THE PHILIPPINES

MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 404

RESTRICTING TRAVEL ABROAD EVEN IF NO GOVERNMENT EXPENSE IS INVOLVED.

In line with the government’s efforts at dollar conversation, it is hereby prescribed as a policy that trips of government officials and employees abroad, including those which are expense-free and are not on official time, shall henceforth be restricted except in cases where the same are in compliance with an international commitment of the Government, or would by their nature redound to the financial benefit of the country, or are in connection with a fellowship, scholarship or training grant.

The international commitment referred to above in one arising out of an agreement entered into between governments through their respective officials or agencies in charge of foreign relations matters. Hence, no particular officer or office shall commit the Government to the sending abroad of anybody unless with prior approval of this Office. It is also hereby directed that any invitation for the sending abroad of any government officials and employees shall first be forwarded to this Office for determination whether or not the invitation may be accepted, as well as of those who may make the trip.

Accordingly, department heads and chiefs of bureaus and offices, including government-owned aor controlled corporations, are hereby directed not to propose trips abroad unless falling under the excepted categories mentioned above.

By authority of the President

(SGD.) ROBERTO V. REYES

Acting Executive Secretary

Manila, October 26, 1970

Source: Presidential Management Staff