Question & AnswerQ&A (HLURB MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 10, S. 1999)
The main purpose is to amend the Guidelines for the Formulation/Revision of Comprehensive Land Use Plans to incorporate provisions of RA 8435, the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997, specifically regarding the mapping and incorporation by local government units of Strategic Agriculture and Fisheries Development Zones (SAFDZs).
RA 8435 mandates HLURB, in coordination with the DA through the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), to map the Network of Protected Areas for Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Development (NPAAAD) for all cities and municipalities and issue guidelines for the incorporation of SAFDZ in local land use plans and ordinances.
NPAAAD includes prime agricultural lands and fishery areas that ensure sustained production and optimal utilization of agricultural and fishery resources. It covers irrigated areas, lands under irrigation projects, alluvial plains suited for agriculture, agro-industrial croplands, highlands over 500 meters for high-value crops, ecologically fragile agricultural lands, mangroves, fish sanctuaries, and all designated fishery areas.
SAFDZs are areas within the NPAAAD identified for production, agro-processing, and marketing activities to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors sustainably and efficiently with government support.
Within one (1) year from the finalization of the SAFDZ, every city and municipality must prepare their respective land use plans and zoning ordinances incorporating the SAFDZ.
They must be updated every four (4) years or as recommended by the Board.
Agricultural lands refer to lands devoted or suitable for soil cultivation, crop planting, growing trees, raising livestock, poultry, fish or aquaculture production, and related farming activities, excluding lands classified as mineral, forest, residential, commercial, or industrial land by law.
BSWM is tasked to undertake the mapping of the NPAAAD and SAFDZ, coordinate with the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), digitize and publish maps, and make them available to the public.
Conversion of lands within the NPAAAD must comply with RA 8435, its implementing rules and regulations, and all existing laws governing land use conversion, emphasizing preservation and sustainable use to avoid environmental degradation.
The Department of Agriculture (DA), in consultation with local government units (LGUs), concerned non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and organized farmers' and fisherfolk groups, identify SAFDZ within NPAAAD.