Held: The Code is a general law and incorporates in a unified document the major structural, functional

and procedural principles of governance (Third Whereas Clause, Administrative Code of 1987) and embodies
changes in administrative structures and procedures designed to serve the people. (Fourth Whereas Clause,
Administrative Code of 1987) The Code is divided into seven (7) books. These books contain provisions on the
organization, powers and general administration of departments, bureaus and offices under the executive branch, the
organization and functions of the Constitutional Commissions and other constitutional bodies, the rules on the
national government budget, as well as guidelines for the exercise by administrative agencies of quasi-legislative
and quasi-judicial powers. The Code covers both the internal administration, i.e., internal organization, personnel
and recruitment, supervision and discipline, and the effects of the functions performed by administrative officials on
private individuals or parties outside government. (Ople v. Torres, G.R. No. 127685, July 23, 1998 [Puno])