Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 718)
Proclamation No. 718 affects the 1,072 hectares of the Sta. Lucia Sub-Colony of the Iwahig Penal Colony.
The Government of Puerto Princesa City was vested with full authority and responsibility to manage, develop, and dispose of the Sta. Lucia Sub-Colony under Proclamation No. 350.
The reclassification was considered necessary because the 1,072 hectares are endowed with estuarine and coastal resources that could be endangered by industrial-commercial activities.
The objectives include creating a model of conservation, serving as a center of tourism and instruction, providing sustainable livelihood opportunities, and fostering eco-tourism and sustainable development.
The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development and the Iwahig Penal Colony Inter Agency Committee jointly endorsed the establishment of the environmental/eco-development estate.
The City Government of Puerto Princesa is to convert the area into an environmental estate that serves as a conservation model and center for tourism and instruction, providing sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Puerto Princesa City Government must jointly submit an action plan for the smooth turnover of the Sta. Lucia Sub-Colony, including all equipment and properties, within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of the proclamation.
Yes, but these activities are still subject to existing Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) rules and regulations.
No, any and all private rights, if there are any, shall be respected under the proclamation.
Proclamation No. 718 took effect immediately upon its promulgation on January 23, 1996.