Presidential Commission on Good Government

The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) was created by President Corazon Aquino on February 28, 1986 through the issuance of Executive Order No.1 series of 1986. This law, predating even the 1987 Philippine Constitution and recognized as the first official act under the Aquino administration, is the symbolic first step in the transition from tyranny to democracy, and the institutionalization of the Filipino people’s aspiration for genuine democracy and desire for good government. The fact that the PCGG was created by President Corazon Aquino, in the exercise of her executive and legislative powers, puts it in a unique position. A rare confluence of factors in Philippine politics—enabling environment conducive to change, political will, and popular support—made its creation possible. The PCGG, a quasi-judicial agency, has three mandates:

1. The recovery of all ill-gotten wealth accumulated by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, his immediate family, relatives, subordinates and close associates, whether located in the Philippines or abroad, including the takeover or sequestration of all business enterprises and entities owned or controlled by them, during his administration, directly or through nominees, by taking undue advantage of their public office and/or using their powers, authority, influence, connections or relationship.
2. The investigation of such cases of graft and corruption as the President may assign to the Commission from time to time.
3. The adoption of safeguards to ensure that the above practices shall not be repeated in any manner under the new government, and the institution of adequate measures to prevent the occurrence of corruption. To restore the institution’s integrity and credibility, aligning its organization and efforts by recalling the noble intentions for which it was created.
2. To secure its place in history, by creating a legacy built on transparency, integrity, and accountability—and, in so doing, become the People’s Commission, and a model agency and exemplar for good governance. PCGG VISION
To become the Commission on informed policy analysis and studies on techniques and methods to combat and prevent corruption.