Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 10593)
Republic Act No. 10593 is an act amending certain sections of Republic Act No. 8048, known as the Coconut Preservation Act of 1995, and it provides for the regulation of cutting coconut trees, their replenishment, penalties for violations, and other related provisions.
A coconut tree may only be cut when it is 60 years old (tall variety) or 40 years old (dwarf variety), economically unproductive, severely disease-infested beyond rehabilitation, severely damaged by typhoon or lightning, agricultural land converted into residential, commercial, industrial or other agricultural uses with proper approval, or when the tree poses a hazard to life and property.
Yes, no coconut tree shall be cut unless a permit has been issued by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) after due application.
The fee is One hundred pesos (P100) per tree, with Forty pesos (P40) for the PCA, Forty pesos (P40) for the municipal government, and Twenty pesos (P20) for the barangay unit. The PCA funds are used for replanting, municipal funds for road repair, and barangay funds for local purposes.
Applicants must secure a certification under oath from the barangay captain that they have already planted the equivalent number of coconut trees they intend to cut. This replanting requirement does not apply to lands converted into commercial, industrial, or residential sites or other agricultural purposes in accordance with law.
The PCA can investigate violations, arrest offenders, search and seize vehicles with illegally cut coconut lumber, stop transport without proper documents, confiscate illegal lumber and related equipment, and seek assistance from other law enforcement agencies.
Conviction can lead to imprisonment from 2 to 6 years or a fine ranging from P100,000 to P500,000 or both. For corporations, the official involved is penalized similarly. Government employees found guilty will also be dismissed from service.
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is the lead agency responsible for implementation, and it may coordinate with local government units, the Philippine National Police, and other law enforcement agencies as necessary.
Yes, the PCA, in coordination with local government units, requires the registration of all sawmills, lumberyards, coconut wood dealers, and other processors to monitor compliance with the law.