WHEREAS, the Constitution, as the fundamental law of the land, envisions a just and humane society and a government that embodies the ideals and aspirations of the Filipino people, promotes the common good, and secures to themselves and their posterity the blessings of independence and democracy under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace;

WHEREAS, love and respect for the Constitution will promote and strengthen the ideals of patriotism, good citizenship, active participation in the social, political and economic development of the country and respect for the rule of law and democratic principles;

WHEREAS, in order to instill in the hearts and minds of the Filipinos the noble and lofty ideals enshrined in the Constitution, it is but fitting to give the people the opportunity to celebrate Constitution Day with fitting ceremonies in the entire country.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ALBERTO G. ROMULO, Executive Secretary, by order of Her Excellency, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, do hereby declare February 2, 2003, as a special day in commemoration of Constitution Day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 31st day of January, in the year of Our Lord, two thousand and three.


By the Executive Secret:

(Sgd.) JOAQUIN C. LAGONERA
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary