Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1698)
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is the implementing agency responsible for these activities.
No, it is prohibited to gather, harvest, collect, transport, possess, sell, or export ordinary corals either in raw or processed form in any quantity.
No, the use of corals as materials in buildings and other man-made structures, such as piers, dams, and dikes, is prohibited.
A special permit may be issued to only one person or corporation for a limited period; the applicant must be a Filipino citizen or a corporation with at least 70% Filipino ownership or control; vessels must be Philippine-registered or have prior clearance if foreign vessels are used.
Upon conviction, penalties include imprisonment of not less than 60 days nor more than 6 years or a fine of not less than Six Thousand Pesos (₱6,000), or both, at the discretion of the court.
Penalties include imprisonment of not less than 30 days nor more than 3 years or a fine of not less than Three Thousand Pesos (₱3,000), or both, at the discretion of the court.
Confiscation covers corals illegally gathered, the vessel, gear, and paraphernalia used in the illegal activity, and attempted illegal exportation of corals.
They are required to dispose of all existing stocks within fifteen (15) days from the date of effectivity of the decree.
The Philippine Constabulary/Integrated National Police (PC/INP), Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Bureau of Customs assist the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in enforcement.