Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 2000 - 21)
The main purpose is to clarify certain provisions of DAO 2000-28 regarding the requirement of Engineering Geological and Geohazard Assessment as an additional requirement for Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) applications, particularly for subdivisions, housing, and other land development and infrastructure projects.
All private or government subdivision and housing projects are required to undergo Engineering Geological and Geohazard Assessment. Other land development and infrastructure projects may also be required to undergo such assessment if mandated by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).
The guidelines shall be prepared by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), in consultation with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).
The assessment must be undertaken either by a licensed professional Geologist with at least five (5) years of practice experience or by a licensed Engineer with (a) a minimum of five (5) years of experience in land and/or infrastructure development and (b) at least six (6) months training or a postgraduate diploma in Engineering Geology/Structural Geology.
The monitoring of compliance is the responsibility of the concerned Local Government Unit and the preparer of the EGGAR.
It serves as an additional requirement under DAO 2000-28 to ensure that subdivisions, housing, and land development projects consider geological and geohazard factors before granting Environmental Compliance Certificates.
It is mandatory for subdivisions and housing projects. For other land development and infrastructure projects, it is required if deemed necessary by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).
The MGB consults with the EMB in preparing the guidelines for the Engineering Geological and Geohazard Assessment and ensures proper implementation.
Yes, licensed professional Geologists must have at least five (5) years of practicing experience, whereas licensed Engineers must have at least five (5) years experience in land or infrastructure development plus training in Engineering Geology or Structural Geology.
This memorandum circular clarifies Administrative Order (DAO) 2000-28.