WHEREAS, the International organization for Standardization (ISO) developed the ISO 3166-1 codes and assigned two-letter (alpha-2) and three-letter (alpha-3) codes for member countries;

WHEREAS, the codes assigned to the Philippines are PH and PHL; WHEREAS, the Philippines, is a member of the International Organization for Standardization, with the Bureau of product Standards representing the country; WHEREAS, the use of the initials RP in referring to the Philippines is not in accordance with the ISO 3166-1, leading to ambiguity and confusion. NOW, THEREFORE, in view of the foregoing premises, all Offices in the Department and all Foreign Service Posts shall use the initials PH or PHL, when referring to the Philippines. This Department Order shall take effect immediately. ALBERTO G. ROMULO Secretary of Foreign Affairs (Signed)