Section 12September 19, 1991, Sec./Art. 12

Establishment of Foreign Service Posts. – The national interest and security shall be the paramount consideration in the establishment of embassies, missions, consulates general and other foreign service establishments maintained by the Department and the priority areas shall be in the countries where the following exist:

(a) Extending diplomatic, financial, material, humanitarian support and other expressions of solidarity;

(b) Favorable trade relations and investments currently exist or prospects for trade and investments are favorable;

(c) A considerable number of Filipino citizens; and

(d) Adherence to the principle of reciprocity and where such is extended to us.

The Secretary shall define the territorial limits of consular jurisdictions.