AFP NDSC Assistance in Implementing Auxiliary Activities Supporting the Northrail Project Phase 1 Section 1

February 28, 2008

MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 279

DIRECTING THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES (AFP) NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT COMMAND (NDSC) TO ASSIST IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AUXILIARY ACTIVITIES IN SUPPORT OF THE NORTHRAIL PROJECT PHASE 1 SECTION 1

WHEREAS, the Northrail Project is a priority infrastructure project intended to provide a fast and reliable rail transport system between Metro Manila and Central and Northern Luzon;

WHEREAS, the North Luzon Railways Corporation requires assistance in the implementation of auxiliary activities in support of the construction of the railway system for the Northrail Project;

WHEREAS, the Armed Forces of the Philippines National Development Support Command has the mandate to support national programs and projects as well as the capability and experience to perform the auxiliary activities required for the Northrail Project Phase 1 Section 1.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order: IHCSTE

1. The AFP National Development Support Command is hereby directed to provide the necessary assistance to the North Luzon Railways Corporation in the implementation of auxiliary activities in support of the implementation of the Northrail Project Phase 1 Section 1, as specified and determined by the President upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation and Communications and/or Secretary of National Defense.

2. The AFP National Development Support Command is likewise directed to conduct close coordination with the North Luzon Railways Corporation to ensure that the implementation of the required auxiliary activities is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Northrail Project Phase 1 Section 1.

3. The Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed to provide sufficient funding for the AFP National Development Support Command to accomplish the foregoing activities.

4. All departments, bureaus, offices, agencies or instrumentalities of the Government, including government-owned and/or controlled corporations, are hereby enjoined to extend such assistance and cooperation as the AFP National Defense may need in the discharge of functions pursuant to this Order.

5. All executive issuances, rules and regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent with this Memorandum Order are hereby revoked, amended or modified accordingly.

6. This Memorandum Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 28th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Eight.