Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 797)
The primary purpose of Executive Order No. 797 is to adopt the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) National Plan of Action as the main framework for developing and implementing plans and programs on marine and coastal resources management in the Philippines.
Article II, Section 16 mandates the State to protect and advance the people’s right to a balanced and healthful ecology. Article XII, Section 2 mandates the State to protect the nation’s marine wealth in its waters and reserve its use exclusively to Filipino citizens.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Timor Leste are part of the Coral Triangle Initiative alongside the Philippines.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) are primarily responsible for implementing the CTI National Plan of Action in the Philippines.
The Secretaries of DENR and DA shall coordinate the implementation of the NPOA, act as the national coordinating body for the NPOA, and serve as focal points for regional CTI processes.
LGUs, especially those within coastal areas, are instructed to consider the NPOA Priority Actions in preparing and implementing local development plans and budgets to contribute to the effective implementation of the NPOA.
An initial allocation of Five Million Pesos (Php 5 Million) shall be released by the Secretary of Budget and Management from the DENR and DA budgets to support core operations of the Secretariat, with subsequent funds subject to joint approval of annual work and financial plans by DENR and DA Secretaries.
The Joint Secretariat is to be established by the DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau and the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources with representatives from various government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and the business sector to support NPOA implementation.
Complementary laws and policies include Republic Act 7586 (NIPAS Act), Republic Act 8550 (Fisheries Code), Executive Order No. 533 on Integrated Coastal Management, Presidential Proclamation No. 1028 declaring Sulu and Celebes Seas as a Conservation Zone, and Executive Order No. 578 on Biological Diversity.
If any portion or provision of the Executive Order is declared unconstitutional, it shall not nullify the other provisions as long as the remaining portions can still be given effect.