2000

Constitution of the TAU GAMMA PHI

Preamble

We, the members of the TAU GAMMA PHI, re-affirming our faith in God, and
adhering to the Tenetsand Codes of Conduct of the Fraternity, in order to strengthen
the bond of brotherhood in pursuit of its ultimate goals and objectives, cognizant of
the vital contribution of a collective effort to promote the general welfare of our
fellowmen, to instill and develop the greatest sense of understanding and respect for
human dignity under the rule of justice, freedom and democracy, do ordain and
promulgate this constitution.

ARTICLE I

Name and Seal

Section 1. The fraternity shall be known as the TAU GAMMA PHI – The Triskelion
Grand Fraternity. The official seal of the TAU GAMMA PHI shall be a large circle with
a smaller circle inside. Between these two circles are inscribed the words TAU
GAMMA PHI on the upper portion; FORTIS-VOLUNTAS-FRATERNITAS on the
lower portion; the number 19 on the left side and 68 on the right. Within the small
circle is inscribed the three-legged symbol with the Greek letters TAU, GAMMA and
PHI between each of the legs. The official colors of the seal are black and gold.

ARTICLE II
Declaration of Principles and Policies

Principles
Section 1. Tau Gamma Phi staunchly advocates brotherhood of men regardless of
race, creed, religion, social, political, and economic status.

Sec. 2. Tau Gamma Phi firmly believes in the power of reason and not in the use of
force as a reason.

Sec. 3. Tau Gamma Phi believes in the promotion of social justice to ensure the well
being and economic security of all people.
Sec. 4. The Tau Gamma Phi abhors violence and human right violations, however
ready to defend, uphold and preserve the sovereign will of its members and of all
people.

Sec. 5. The Tau Gamma Phi encourages and fosters scholarship among its
members. The stimulation of intellectual creativeness and the promotion of the social
and physical well being of its members is of paramount concern.

Policies
Sec. 6. The Tau Gamma Phi shall seek and help in the realization of a truly
democratic society, adhere and promote the policy of peace, equality, unity and
cooperation among all people.

Sec. 7. The Tau Gamma Phi shall take an active part in the conservation of the
country’s natural resources, renewing those that can be renewed and campaigning
against the exploitation of this God-given wealth.

Sec. 8. The Tau Gamma Phi shall strive to mold its members into morally upright
and self-reliant individuals geared towards civic efficiency.

ARTICLE III
Membership

Section 1. The Fraternity shall have four (4) categories of members:

SENIOR TRISKELION – College students enrolled and initiated by Senior
Triskelions in any college, university, and institution recognized by the National
Council and individual Junior Triskelion or Community-Based Chapter who has
undergone welcome rites for upgrading to Senior Triskelion category and ritual rites
to full-fledged membership.
JUNIOR TRISKELION – High School students initiated by Senior and/or Junior
Triskelions in any high school recognized by the National Council.

COMMUNITY-BASED TRISKELION – Any out-of-school youth or college student in

schools or universities without chapters or affiliations with any City, Municipal or
Regional Council initiated by full-fledged and/or Community-Based members,
provided that such Community-Based Chapters are recognized by its Municipal,
Provincial and Regional Council.

ALUMNI – senior Triskelions who have graduated from college and undergraduate
Triskelion who possess the following: 1) At least a bonafide member of five (5) years;
2) Gainfully employed or pursuing business.
Sec. 2. Membership to the Fraternity shall be in three (3) stages:

PROBATIONARY – newly initiated Triskelions placed under on-probation status for

six (6) months or more, wherein merits and demerits are given based on his
performance and must attend all seminars, workshops, training and meetings to be
conducted by the Chapter or in cooperation with the City, Municipal, Provincial,
Regional or National Council.

FULL-PLEDGED MEMBER – New members who have undergone the probationary

period and has passed the Ritual Rites of the Fraternity.

MOST DISTINGUISHED GUARDIAN (MDG) – A full-pledged member who has

effectively served for one (1) year as Grand Triskelion, or local founders or those
who have given exemplary service in the development of the Fraternity and has
given it honor, integrity and prestige. Membership to the Order is bestowed by fellow
Most Distinguished Guardians or MDGs upon the recommendation of the chapter
Grand Triskelion and approval of the Grand Council. The provisions of this section
shall not apply to members who have served or are currently serving as MDGs at
the time of ratification of this Constitution.

Sec. 3. Membership to the Fraternity shall cease upon resignation or expulsion for
due cause. Members recommended for expulsion shall have the benefit of a trial or
due process and may appeal to the higher organ of the Fraternity. All local chapters
must provide the higher echelons of the Fraternity with duly-certified expulsion
papers not more than ten (10) days after its effectivity.

Sec. 4. Candidate members to the Tau Gamma Phi shall be qualified on the basis of
the following:

He must believe in the Principles of the Fraternity.

He must be of good moral character.
He must be at least seventeen (17) years of age for Senior and Community-Based
Triskelion candidates and fifteen (15) years of age for Junior Triskelion candidates.
must be mentally and physically fit, supported by a Medical Certificate under oath.
He must be willing to undergo the membership requirements.
He must be sponsored by any Triskelion of good standing.
He must not be a member of any fraternity or organization whose principles and
purposes are contrary to those of the Tau Gamma Phi.

Sec. 5. Candidate members shall be subjected to background investigation prior to

interview and orientation. The Grand Council shall approve his application upon
formal endorsement of the sponsor.
 ARTICLE IV
Duties and Responsibilities of a Triskelion

Section 1. Every Triskelion shall strive to lead a morally upright and virtuous life in
accordance with the Tenets and Codes of Conduct of the Fraternity.

Sec. 2. It shall be the duty of every Triskelion to uphold this Constitution, to give
unswerving loyalty to the Fraternity, to actively contribute to its development and
welfare and to abide by the rules and regulations issued by its lawful authorities.

Sec. 3. Every Triskelion is responsible for each other. It shall be his duty to assist
and support his fellow Triskelion especially in times of crisis.

Sec. 4. It shall be the duty of all Triskelions to attend all meetings, and to actively
participate in all project and activities of the Fraternity.

Sec. 5. It shall be the obligation of all Triskelion to pay the dues/fees set by its lawful
authorities.

Sec. 6. It shall be the duty of every qualified Triskelion to register and cast his vote in
Fraternity elections, referendum, and plebiscites.

Sec. 7. A Triskelion is obligated to exert his best effort to develop his potentials,
physical or intellectual, in order to strengthen the Fraternity. Triskelions with special
skills and talents shall heed the call of the Fraternity’s leadership to lead or take part
in an activity designed to countenance any critical or emergency situation.

Sec. 8. It is the duty of every Triskelion to recruit new members.

ARTICLE V
Rights and Privileges of a Triskelion

Section 1. The right to equal treatment and opportunities shall not be abridged
regardless of religious belief, socio-economic and political status.

Sec. 2. Every Triskelion shall have the right to express his opinions on matters
concerning the Fraternity provided that it is put forth in a constructive manner.

Sec. 3. The right to be protected against exploitation, improper influences, and other
conditions prejudicial to his physical, intellectual, social, political, economic and
moral development shall be guaranteed.
Sec. 4. Every Triskelion has the right to have access and inspect all books of
accounts, records and similar materials of public character pertaining to the
fraternity.

Sec. 5. The right of a Triskelion in good standing to actively participate in all projects
and undertakings of the Fraternity shall always be recognized.

Sec. 6. Qualified full-pledged Triskelions in good standing shall have the right to run
for elective positions in the Fraternity subject to the qualifications of the position.

Sec. 7. The right to join or organize legitimate organizations whose purposes are
contributory to the enhancement of the Fraternity shall not be impaired.

ARTICLE VI
Organization

Section 1. The National Council:

The National Council of the Tau Gamma Phi shall be the final authority in the
management and administration of the affairs of the Fraternity.
The National Council shall be composed of:
(1) The National Assembly

(2) The National Executive Council

(3) The Judicial Council

Sec. 2. The National Assembly

The National Assembly shall be the highest policy-making body of the Fraternity.
The National Assembly shall be composed of all the incumbent duly elected
Regional Secretary-Generals and Provincial Governor-Generals and shall function
as a collegial body.
The National Assembly shall have the following powers and functions:
(1) To elect the officers of the National Executive Council.

(2) To analyze, evaluate, deliberate on and render decisions regarding programs,

policies and developmental plans of the National Executive Council.

(3) To enact a national budget to be supported by available funds as certified by

the National Treasurer or to be raised by corresponding revenue proposals
submitted by the National Secretariat.

(4) To act on all proposed amendments or revisions to this Constitution.

(5) To establish the rules of its proceedings and to conduct inquiries in aid of
legislation in accordance with its duly published rules and procedures.

(6) A quorum, which is fifty percent plus one (50%+1) shall first be established, and
that two-thirds (2/3) of the members present who are duly notified, can override the
veto power of the Premier.

(7) The National Assembly may punish its members for disorderly behavior and to
suspend them with the concurrence of two-thirds (2/3) of all its members.

Meetings, Quorum and Manner of Voting of the National Assembly:

(1) The National Assembly shall holds its annual meeting on the last week of
January of every fiscal year at the principal office or at any place within the area of
operation of the Fraternity. Special National Assembly meetings may be called to
consider urgent matters requiring National Assembly decisions upon orders of the
Premier or upon petition of at least forty percent (40%) of its members.

(2) At all annual or special meetings of the National Assembly, fifty percent plus one
(50%+1) of the total number of members shall constitute a quorum.

(3) Recognized Regional Secretary Generals and Provincial Governor Generals or

their duly authorized representatives, who are physically present in National
Assembly meetings shall be qualified to vote, participate in all deliberations, and in
all decision making.

Sec.3. The NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL:

The National Executive Council is vested upon by this Constitution with the power to
implement and execute its contents and all policies, rules and regulations affecting
the existence of the Fraternity.
The National Executive Council shall be composed of the following:
(1) The Premier

(2) The Executive Vice-Premier

(3) The Vice-Premier for Luzon

(4) The Vice-Premier for Visayas

(5) The Vice-Premier for Mindanao

(6) The Vice-Premier for International Affairs

(7) The National Executive Secretary

(8) The National Secretariat Officers

(9) The National Treasurer

(10) The National Auditor

The National Executive Council shall have the following powers and functions:
(1) To devise mechanisms for the smooth implementation of the program thrusts,
policies and priorities of the Fraternity as determined by the National Assembly.

(2) To prepare an annual program for budget and to submit the same to the National
Assembly for approval.

(3) To bestow final approval of recognition to newly created chapters or councils and
to suspend the recognition of chapters upon the recommendation of the Regional
Councils.

(4) To adopt policies for fund sourcing, capital build-up, loans, acquisitions of
properties, collection of dues and fees for the benefit of the Fraternity.

(5) To issue circulars, memoranda, and policy instructions to ensure the strict
compliance with this Constitution and revisions in national policies and programs
approved by the National Assembly.

(6) In case of national emergency, where the National Assembly cannot be

convened, the National Executive Council may decide for and in behalf of the best
interests of the Fraternity.

(7) To create other committees and offices deemed necessary for the efficient and
effective implementation of programs and policies of the National Council.

Sec. 4.OFFICERS of the NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL:

THE PREMIER:
(1) The executive powers of the Fraternity shall be vested in the Premier of the Tau
Gamma Phi. No member may be elected Premier unless he has served as Secretary
General of any recognized Regional Council of the Fraternity or Governor General of
any recognized Provincial Council.

(2) The Premier shall be elected by a majority vote of all the members of the
National Assembly and shall hold office for a term of two years (2) and shall be
eligible for re-election. However the Premier shall serve for not more than two
successive terms.

(3) Powers and Functions of the Premier:

To exercise general supervision of all the local councils, executive offices and
committees as may be provided by this Constitution.

To appoint and remove the National Executive Secretary; the heads of the different
executive offices and committees; the National Treasurer, and the National Auditor.
To report on the state of the Fraternity in annual National Assembly meetings.
To recommend to the National Assembly measures necessary and expedient which
must be acted upon before adjournment of a National Assembly meeting.
To preside over the meetings of the National Executive Council.
To exercise the power to veto bills amending this Constitution or revisions in national
policies previously decided upon by the National Assembly.
To enter into contracts, agreements or pacts with other legitimate organizations and
entities which shall be beneficial to the Fraternity provided that he gets the
concurrence of at least two-thirds (2/3) of total number of present members in the
National Assembly.

The Executive Vice-Premier – shall be the presiding officer of the National Assembly,
and to represent the Premier in meetings and other functions when the latter cannot
be physically present and shall perform other duties and responsibilities that may be
assigned by the National Council. For whatever valid reason that the Premier could
not continue to perform his duties and responsibilities, the Executive Vice-Premier
shall automatically assume the position of Premier and shall serve the remaining
term of office of the Premier.

The Vice-Premier for LUZON; the Vice- Premier for VISAYAS; the Vice- Premier for
MINDANAO; and the Vice-Premier for INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS:

(1) The Vice-Premier for Luzon; the Vice-Premier for Visayas; the Vice-Premier for
Mindanao; and the Vice-Premier for International Affairs are duly- elected national
officials. No member shall be elected Vice-Premier unless he has served as
Secretary General of any recognized Regional Council or Governor General of any
recognized Provincial Council.

(2) Powers and Functions of the Vice-Premier for Luzon; the Vice- Premier for
Visayas; the Vice-Premier for Mindanao; and the Vice-Premier for International
Affairs:

To assist and support the Premier in the performance of the latter duties.
To supervise the operations of all the Regional Councils in their respective territorial
jurisdictions.

To screen, recommend, expedite, facilitate and decide on issues and concerns

brought forth by the various Regional and Provincial Councils within his territorial
jurisdiction.
To formulate developmental plans in line with the general thrusts of the area and
submit the same to the National Executive Council for deliberation and approval.
To consolidate and submit to the National Assembly and National Executive Council
quarterly accomplishment and status reports of the different Regional Councils under
his jurisdiction.

To facilitate and coordinate the establishment of the City, Municipal, provincial, and
Regional Councils within his jurisdiction and strengthen the same in line with national
policies.

The NATIONAL EXECUTIVE SECRETARY:

(1) The National Executive Secretary shall act as the head of the National
Secretariat and shall supervise its over-all operations.

(2) The National Executive Secretary must be a member of the Most

Distinguished Order of the Guardians and shall be appointed by the Premier.

(3) Duties and functions of the National Executive Secretary:

To ensure that the various echelons of the fraternal organization are functioning
efficiently on their prime concerns.
To assign the specific tasks of the various office and committee heads in conformity
with the policies and programs of the National Council.
To take responsibility for the record keeping of all meetings of the National Assembly
and the National Executive Council and to furnish copies to all the members of both
branches.

The NATIONAL TREASURER-shall have the following functions and responsibilities:

(1) To formulate programs and schemes for budgeting and collection of dues
and/or fee.

(2) To submit quarterly and annual financial reports to the National Council.

(3) To identify, secure, develop and maintain financial sources for the Fraternity.

(4) To exercise technical supervision of the budget and finance offices in the lower
structures of the Fraternity.

(5) To devise effective and efficient financial mechanisms and structures.

(6) To disburse funds of the National Council in accordance with the National
Budget and in strict compliance with the established rules and regulations.

(7) To post an adequate bond from a reputable insurance company acceptable to

the National Executive Council in such amount which might be fixed by the former.

(8) To keep charge of the funds, securities, titles, deeds, receipts, and
disbursements of the Fraternity.
(9) To deposit or cause to be deposited all moneys and other valuable effects in
the name and to the credit of the Fraternity in such banks or trust companies as the
National Executive Council may from time to time designate.

(10) To render to the National Executive Council or to the National Assembly

whenever required an account of the financial condition of the Fraternity and at the
close of calendar year to submit a like report for such calendar year.

(11) To keep correct Books of Account of all the business transactions of the
Fraternity.

(12) To advise the National Council regarding disposition of funds and other matters
relative to financial matters.

The NATIONAL AUDITOR:

The National Auditor shall be appointed by the Premier upon the recommendation of
the National Executive Secretary and shall come from the ranks of the Most
Distinguished Order of the Guardians and shall serve a four (4) year’s term.
The National Auditor shall be a Certified Public Accountant and preferably a Most
Distinguish Guardian (MDG).
The National Auditor shall have the following function and responsibilities:
(1) To take charge of both the accounting and internal audit services of the
National Council.

(2) To install and maintain an internal audit system in all echelons of the
national structure.

(3) Apprise the National Council officials on the financial condition and
operations of the council and committees concerned.

(4) Certify to the availability of the budget allotment to which expenditures and
obligations may be properly charged.

(5) To install and maintain an effective accounting system in coordination with

the National Treasurer.

Sec.5. The NATIONAL SECRETARIAT:

The National Secretariat shall administer to the day to day activities of the National
Executive Council.
The National Secretariat shall be composed of the following:
(1) The National Executive Secretary

(2) The Secretary for Information and Communication

(3) The Secretary for Membership and Organization

(4) The Secretary for the Interior

(5) The Secretary for Special Projects

(6) The Secretary for Alumni Affairs.

The Secretary for INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION shall have the following
functions and responsibilities:
(1) To disseminate notices of meeting, consultations, dialogues seminars and
circular orders, memoranda, policy instructions and other information materials of the
National Council to the lower structures of the Fraternity.

(2) To supervise the over-all operations and ensure the continuous circulation of
the official publication of the National Council.

(3) To submit quarterly and annual reports on communication capabilities and

information dissemination potentials.

(4) To coordinate with the Secretary for Membership and Organization in the
maintenance and upgrading of a secured national database.

(5) To establish and maintain a National Council Website.

(6) To continuously upgrade and streamline existing communication capabilities.

(7) To establish and maintain a speaker’s and trainer’s bureau to complement the
activities of the various national offices and committees.

The Secretary for MEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION shall have the following
functions and responsibilities:
(1) To initiate and continuously gather the list of Triskelions initiated from 1968 to
the present with the corresponding updated background information and encode the
same to as secure database.

(2) To formulate the National Standard Procedures for Membership to the

Fraternity in accordance with National Council mandates and ensures the strict
implementation of the same.

(3) To screen and recommend the recognition or suspension of recognition of

chapters and councils upon recommendation and endorsement of the lower
echelons of the Fraternity.
(4) To formulate, monitor and conduct continuing programs on leadership and
service to fellowmen and symposiums on how to improve the quality of members.

(5) To submit quarterly and annual reports to the National Executive Council
regarding membership strength and capabilities, achievements and program
proposals.

(6) To devise, initiate and implement programs geared towards the social,
economic, educational and moral upliftment of all Triskelions and foster constructive
interaction among all members.

(7) To research, analyze, formulate and implement programs towards establishing

and maintaining harmonious relationships with other fraternities and legitimate
organizations.

(8) To monitor the needs of the general membership regarding welfare, health,
unemployment, death or sickness and fraternity-related incarceration and
recommend to the different structures of the Fraternity solutions to such problems.

(9) To formulate guidelines for recognition and suspension of chapters and

councils.

(10) To formulate and to implement programs and policies aimed at providing free
consultation and legal aid to all members in good standing.

(11) To review, to render his decision, and to submit in writing recommendations on

government laws, bills, acts and ordinances which may have adverse repercussions
on the Fraternity.

(12) To represent the National Council and/or any of its members in civil, criminal
and special proceedings.

(13) To investigate or cause to be investigated any national or local official (elected

or appointed) for violations of the Tenets and Codes of Conduct of the Fraternity;
administrative neglect; graft and funds malversation and recommend appropriate
action to the Premier.

(14) To investigate or cause to be investigated any of the Fraternity’s subsidiary

organizations for failure to comply with the terms and conditions stipulated in the
grant of such franchise or privilege and recommend appropriate action to the
National Executive Council.

(15) To protect all members from human rights violations and prosecute any
violation thereof.
(16) To exercise such other powers and performs other duties and functions,
which may be assigned by the Premier.

The Secretary for the INTERIOR shall have the following functions and
responsibilities:
(1) To formulate and implement a comprehensive security plan to ensure the
confidentiality of Fraternity information and security for all its members.

(2) To devise a national disaster preparedness program and form highly-trained

quick reaction units from among the members all over the archipelago to augment
other civic action groups in areas hard-hit by calamities and disasters.

(3) To coordinate with government agencies and non-government organizations

on projects and programs aimed at community development, agro-industrial thrusts,
labor intensive income generating ventures and peace and order.

(4) To act as the National Wielder of the Whip.

The Secretary for SPECIAL PROJECTS shall have the following functions and
responsibilities:
(1) To act as the head of the socio- economic, cultural and political development
arm of the Fraternity.

(2) To conduct human resources development training, seminars and workshops

in order to strengthen the capabilities of Triskelion communities along the lines of
organizational development and management, leadership formation, and career
development.

(3) To formulate and implement programs and policies aimed at enhancing self-
propelling and self-reliant Triskelion organizations through optimum utilization of
human and financial resources.

(4) To assist the lower structures of the Fraternity in developing project proposals
for community and school-based endeavors on aspects of health, education,
environmental concerns and other social services that would redound to the positive
public image of the Fraternity.

(5) To undertake research and advocacy work to influence public and private
policies, which are in effect beneficial to the furtherance to the Fraternity’s programs
and services.

(6) To coordinate with the other National offices in the promotion of solidarity work
with other fraternities in the conquest of lasting peace.

The Secretary for ALUMNI AFFAIRS:

(1) Formulate guidelines and coordinate the formation and strengthening of
Alumni Chapters.

(2) To ensure that the programs and activities being undertaken by the various
alumni chapters are in conformity with this Constitution and in line with the policies
set by the National Executive Council.

ARTICLE VII
National Judicial Council

Section 1. The Premier shall appoint from among the Council of Elders / MDG’s
members of the Judicial Council who shall serve for a term of four (4) years.

Sec. 2. The National Judicial Council shall have the following duties and functions.

To hear, litigate and decide on all cases pertaining to Constitutional matters against
any Triskelion, Chapter, or Council.
To review all impeachment, recall and suspension proceedings and render the final
decisions for or against any elected official of the Fraternity.
To act as the final authority on expulsion of erring members.
To automatically constitute itself into the Commission on Election in every national
election.

ARTICLE VIII
Council of Elders

Section 1. It shall act as the advisory arm of the National Council.

Sec.2. The Council of Elders shall be composed of all former Secretary-Generals of
all recognized Regional Councils who are in good standing with the Fraternity.
Sec.3. The Council of Elders shall elect among themselves such officers, as it may
deem necessary.
 ARTICLE IX
Local Councils

General Provisions

Section l. The territorial subdivisions of the Republic of the Philippines except the
barangay shall be adopted by the Fraternity. As such, there shall be Regional,
Provincial, City, and Municipal Council formations.

Sec. 2. The territorial subdivisions of the Fraternity shall enjoy local autonomy.

Sec. 3. The National Assembly shall enact a Local Council Code which shall provide
for a more responsive and accountable local council structure instituted through a
system of decentralization with effective mechanisms of recall, initiative, and
consultations, allocate among the different council units their powers,
responsibilities, and resources, and provide for the qualifications, election,
appointment, and removal, term, powers, and functions, and duties of local officers
and other matters relating to the Fraternity and operation of the local council units.

Sec. 4. The National Premier shall exercise general supervision over local council
units. Regional Councils with respect to component Provincial Councils, Provincial
Councils with respect to component City and Municipal Councils, and City and
Municipal Councils with respect to component local chapters shall ensure that the
acts of their component units are within the scope of their prescribed powers and
functions.

Sec. 5. Each local council unit shall have the power to create its own sources of
revenues and levy dues, fees and other charges subject to such guidelines and
limitations as the National Assembly may provide, consistent with the basic policy of
local autonomy. Such dues, fees, and charges shall accrue exclusively to the local
council units.

Sec. 6. The term of office of the elected local chapter officers, whether school-based
or community-based, and City and Municipal Councils shall be:

School or Community Based Chapters – One (1) year;

Municipal, City, Provincial and Regional Councils – Two (2) years.
Provincial Council and Regional Council officers shall serve for two years and no
such elected officer shall serve for more than two successive terms. Voluntary
renunciation of office for any length of time shall not be considered as an interruption
in the continuity of his service for the full term for which he was elected.

Sec. 7. No Regional, Provincial, City, Municipal or local chapter unit may be created,
divided, merged, abolished, or its boundary substantially altered, except in
accordance with the criteria established in the Local Council Code and subject to
approval by the National Executive Council.

ARTICLE X
Principle of Subsidiarity

Section 1. In conformity with the principle of subsidiarity, functions that may well be
performed by a lower-level structure of the Fraternity shall not be vested in a higher-
level structure of the Fraternity. Thus, functions that can be performed efficiently by a
school or community chapter shall not be vested in the City or Municipal Council.
Those that can be rendered well by the City or Municipal Council shall not be vested
in the Provincial Council. Those that can be performed by the Provincial Council
shall not be vested in the Regional Council. Finally, functions that can be performed
well by the Regional Council shall not be given to the National Council. Conflicts and
doubts on jurisdiction between the National Council, Regional Council, and lower
level structures of the Fraternity shall be decided expeditiously by the National
Judicial Council en banc or in division depending on the seriousness of the
controversy.

Sec. 2. The sub-division and pattern of the organizational structure of the Regional
Council, Provincial Council, City or Municipal Council, and the School-based and
Community-based chapters are designed to be similar. However, all Chapters and
Councils shall follow the Direct Line of Command. School-based and Community-
based Chapters to Municipal or City Councils, to the Provincial Council to the
Regional Council up to the National Council.

Sec. 3. No chapter or council shall be allowed to undertake programs or projects

contrary to this Constitution or to national policies.

Sec. 4. Officials of the Fraternity in various echelons shall be elected as follows:

The school-Based and Community-Based Chapter officials shall be elected by its

mass membership or body.
The Municipal or City Council officials shall be elected by members of the Municipal
Assembly.
The Provincial Council officers shall be elected by the members of the Provincial
Assembly.
The Regional Council Officials shall be elected by the members of the Regional
Assembly.
The National Council officials shall be elected by the members of the National
Assembly which shall be composed of all the Regional Secretary Generals and
Provincial Governor General upon consultation with their respective Regional
Assemblies.

ARTICLE XI

Accountability of Officers

Section 1. All officers, whether elected or appointed, shall at all times be accountable
to the general membership of the Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity and shall serve them
with utmost honesty, responsibility, integrity, loyalty and efficiency.

Sec. 2. The Premier, the Executive Vice-Premier, the Vice-Premiers and the
members of the National Assembly may be removed from office on impeachment for
and conviction of culpable violation of this Constitution and the Tenets and Codes of
Conduct, graft and corruption and other high crimes or betrayal of Fraternal trust.

Sec. 3. The National Executive Secretary and the members of the National
Secretariat may be removed from office by the Premier.

Sec. 4.

(1) The National Assembly shall have the power to initiate all cases of
impeachment.

(2) A verified complaint for impeachment of any National Officer may be filed
by any member of the National Assembly or any member of the Fraternity through
the proper bodies.

(3) The members of the National Assembly and the National Judicial Council shall
be on oath during the whole proceedings. No officer shall be convicted without the
concurrence of three-fourths (¾) of the members of the National Assembly.

(4) The Chairman of the National Judicial Council shall preside over the proceedings
if the Premier is on trial. He shall vote only in case of deadlock.

(5) The National Assembly shall promulgate its rules on impeachment to effectively
carry out the purpose of this article.

ARTICLE XII
General Provisions
Section 1. The Fraternity shall inculcate patriotism and nationalism, international
solidarity, foster love of humanity, respect human rights, strengthen, spiritual and
ethnical values, develop moral character and personal discipline, and encourage
critical and creative thinking among its members.

Sec. 2. The Fraternity shall promote social justice including the commitment to
create economic opportunities for its members based on the freedom of initiative and
self-reliance.

Sec. 37. The Fraternity shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach
geared towards the full development of its members in the fields of education, health,
science, technology, arts, culture, and sports.

Sec. 4. The National Council shall adopt a national security plan to be administered
by the National Secretary for the Interior and implemented by his local counterparts
in their jurisdictions.

Sec. 5. The Special Projects Committee shall be the social, economic, cultural and
political development arm of the National Council. It shall be developed into a non-
government organization (NGO) and shall henceforth be known as Fraternitas de
Voluntas (Brotherhood of Freewill). It shall promote the viability and growth of
Triskelion Cooperatives as units of social justice and economic development.

Sec. 6. The National Council shall provide the policy environment for full
responsibility of Triskelion capability and the emergence of communication structures
suitable to the needs and aspirations of the Fraternity and the balanced flow of
information into, out of, and across the country.

Sec. 7. The Fraternity shall take into account Regional and Provincial needs and
conditions and shall encourage local planning in the development of policies and
programs for the betterment of its members.

ARTICLE XIII
Amendments or Revisions

Section 1. Any amendments to, or revision of this Constitution may be proposed by:
The National Assembly, upon a vote of three-fourths (3/4) of all its members or A
Constitutional Convention.

Sec. 2. The National Assembly may by a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of all its members
call a Constitutional Convention.
Sec. 3. Any amendment to or revision of this Constitution under Section 1 hereof
shall be valid when ratified by a majority of the votes of all delegates in a
Constitutional Convention.
 ARTICLE XIV
Transitory Provisions

Section 1. The First National Congress shall be held on October 3, 2000 and shall be
held every two (2) years thereafter, every second week of November.

Sec. 2. All Interim Regional Structures shall continue to exercise its functions until
October 2002 when regular Regional Conventions will be held under the auspices of
the National Council.

Sec. 3. All Interim Provincial Councils shall continue to exercise its powers and
functions until September 2002 when regular Provincial Elections will be held.

Sec. 4. All school-based chapters, whether Seniors or Juniors, and all community-
based chapters shall hold its annual elections every third week of June.

Sec. 5. The City Councils and Municipal Councils shall have their regular elections
on the month of July, and shall be witnessed by the Provincial Executive Council.

Sec. 6. Provincial Councils shall have their regular elections on the month of August.

Sec. 7. Regional Councils shall have their regular elections on the month of
September.

Sec. 8. The National Council shall hold their regular elections on the month of
November and shall assume office immediately on the following year..

Sec. 9. National Assembly shall determine the honoraria and other remuneration
allocated for the Premier and that the utilization of this fund shall be subject to the
approval of the National Assembly.

ARTICLE XV

Effectivity

Section 1. All existing INEC resolutions, implementing guidelines, letters of

instrumentation, and other issuance’s consistent with this Constitution shall remain
operative until amended, repealed, or revoked.
Sec. 2. This Constitution shall take effect immediately upon its ratification by a
majority of the votes cast in a National Congress held for the purpose and shall
supersede all previous Constitutions.

Approved and adopted by the delegates of the First National Congress held from
October 2-3, 2000 at the La Vista Resort, Brgy. Pansol, Calamba Laguna.

DENNIS S. LOPEZ, MDG

Presiding Officer, Adamson University

NEPTHALI GODINO, MDG

Floor Leader, Secretary General Region 5

EDGARDO LOPEZ, MDG

Group 1 Representative, Pampanga

PATRICK GUZMAN, MDG MARWIN MILLARI, MDG

Group 2 Representative Group 3 Representative
University of the East Legaspi City, Albay

ATTY. ORLANDO CALAYAN BONG LACUNA, MDG

Group 4 Representative Group 5 Representative
Quezon Province Lucena City

Signed by all Participants Present

NO NAME CHAPTER/COUNCIL
1 (SGD.) Almario, Edgar Laguna Provincial Council
2 (SGD.) Alonzo, Wilfredo Lucena City Council
3 (SGD.) Alvarado, Rald University of Santo Tomas
4 (SGD.) Antiquina, Josephine Cagayan de Oro
5 (SGD.) Asturias, Marty MMRC-Letran
6 (SGD.) Baltazar, Romy San Sebastian College
7 (SGD.) Bandula, Manuel V. Tambunting
8 (SGD.) Bariso, Arnold San Mateo, Rizal
9 (SGD.) Biglete, Noel Laguna Provincial Council
10 (SGD.) Brigola, MayLaguna Provincial Council
11 (SGD.) Briones, Andy FEU/ San Jose
12 (SGD.) Buco, Leomer Makati City
13 (SGD.) Cajucom, Boyeth Laguna Provincial Council
14 (SGD.) Caparino, Benjie Adamson University
15 (SGD.) Cueno, Bobby Bataan Provincial Council
16 (SGD.) Dagbay, Phoebe P. Cagayan de Oro
17 (SGD.) Daguigan, Laurence MMRC-Letran
18 (SGD.) Daway, Dionald Philippine Maritime Institute
19 (SGD.) Daway, Jun National University
20 (SGD.) De Castro, Victorino Tayabas, Quezon
21 (SGD.) Dimaporo, Alex MSU Marawi City
22 (SGD.) Doronila, Lot Adamson University
23 (SGD.) Doronila, Manny De La Salle University
24 (SGD.) Encanto, Dodong INEC-National University
25 (SGD.) Escober, Jasper Adamson University
26 (SGD.) Eupena, Marino Luisiana, Laguna
27 (SGD.) Flor, Jun University of the Philippines
28 (SGD.) Flores, Mitchell INEC-Cagayan De Oro
29 (SGD.) Flores, William C. Cagayan de Oro
30 (SGD.) Fortunato, Ernest John MMRC-MLQU
31 (SGD.) Galido, Jonai Laguna Provincial Council
32 (SGD.) Generoso, Jun Mindoro Provincial Council
33 (SGD.) Gerolaga, Carlo C. Triskelion Order of Law
34 (SGD.) Glorioso. Orlando Pagbilao, Bulacan
35 (SGD.) Gonzales, Rey INEC-Batangas Council
36 (SGD.) Gorospe, Manny INEC-Far Eastern University
37 (SGD.) Grecia, Phillip John MMRC-San Sebastian Council
38 (SGD.) Guevarra, Bong CCP – San Mateo
39 (SGD.) Hernandez, Rodel P. San Pedro Laguna Council
40 (SGD.) Hirata, Lino Laguna Provincial Council
41 (SGD.) Karganilla, Don AMACC QC
42 (SGD.) Lacuna, BoyAdamson University
43 (SGD.) Lazatin, Paul AMACC QC
44 (SGD.) Lee, June INEC-GAUF
45 (SGD.) Leong, Brenant San Pedro Laguna Council
46 (SGD.) Limbago, Robert INEC-Adamson University
47 (SGD.) Lindaya, Ana Central Luzon State University
48 (SGD.) Macario, Gary Malolos, Bulacan
49 (SGD.) Maceda, Malou Adamson University
50 (SGD.) Magno, Allan Laguna Council, San Pedro
51 (SGD.) Manimtim, Allan Lumil, San Jose
52 (SGD.) Manlapaz, Christian Far Eastern University
53 (SGD.) Manlapaz, Micheal Emilio Aguinaldo College
54 (SGD.) Martinez, Bobot University of the East Mla.
55 (SGD.) Maulawin, Victor Davao City
56 (SGD.) Mindalano, Caliph A. Jr. Cebu Council
57 (SGD.) Molino, Mike INEC-University of Santo Tomas
58 (SGD.) Morales, Joshua Triskelion Order of Law
59 (SGD.) Navarro, Jojo Univerisity of Manila
60 (SGD.) Ner, Pastor Aurelio San Pedro Laguna Council
61 (SGD.) Nunag, Jeffrey AMACC QC
62 (SGD.) Nuque, Mon Pasig City Council
63 (SGD.)Oasan, ChitoAdamson University
64 (SGD.) Obedoza, John Dale LETRAN / MMRC
65 (SGD.) Oropesa, Loy CCP – San Mateo
66 (SGD.) Ortiz, Alvy LPC/ San Pedro
67 (SGD.) Osorio, Gigi Laguna Provincial Council
68 (SGD.) Panganiban, Omar Laguna Provincial Council
69 (SGD.) Pasayan, Brown Laguna Provincial Council
70 (SGD.) Pelejo, Reynold Mauban, Quezon
71 (SGD.) Pike, Dale Pasig
72 (SGD.) Piol, Phillip Windsor Laguna Provincial Council
73 (SGD.) Pulumbarit, Harold Malolos, Bulacan
74 (SGD.) Ravanzo, Boy Lucena City Council
75 (SGD.) Rebong, Manolito INEC-Cavite
76 (SGD.) Redondo, Alquin Binan-Adamson
77 (SGD.) Roborar, ElySan Mateo, Rizal
78 (SGD.) Rondilla, Susan MIT
79 (SGD.) Rosaria, Victor Adamson
80 (SGD.) Roxas, Jimmy SSC – San Mateo
81 (SGD.) Sabado, Bobby INEC-FEU
82 (SGD.) Samano, Roy Northwest USA
83 (SGD.) Sanchez, Jerry C. Nueva Viscaya
84 (SGD.) Santos, Analyn MMRC-PLM
85 (SGD.) Sendaydiego, Reujane Palawan
86 (SGD.) Sibal, Jefferson Makati City
87 (SGD.) Solis, Mon Laguna Council, San Pedro
88 (SGD.) Sudla, Renato Adamson University
89 (SGD.) Talabucon, Victor Lawrence P. Cagayan de Oro
90 (SGD.) Tenorio, JunLaguna Provincial Council
91 (SGD.) Villa, Anot Quezon / Lucena Council
92 (SGD.) Villalada, Don Taguig City
93 (SGD.) Yangyang, Wilter AMACC QC
94 (SGD.) Yu, Karlus Cagayan de Oro