Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 232 [*])
The main policy of the State is to promote accelerated growth and development of the coconut and other palm oils industry so that the benefits shall accrue to the greatest number, providing continued leadership and support in the integrated development of the industry.
The purposes and objectives include promoting accelerated development of the coconut industry, providing general directions for steady and orderly development, and achieving vertical integration so coconut farmers benefit from industry growth.
The Authority can formulate industry development programs, evaluate and coordinate policies, recommend agency integration, supervise activities, regulate marketing and export including quotas, administer funds, borrow funds, recommend credit policies, and enter into contracts necessary for its objectives.
The Board consists of eleven members: three private sector representatives appointed by the President, the Chairman of the National Science Development Board, Undersecretaries of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Trade, President of the Philippine Coconut Producers Federation, Chairmen of United Coconut Associations and Coconut Investment Company, and Directors of the Bureau of Plant Industry and Bureau of Agricultural Extension.
The Administrator directs and manages Authority affairs, recommends organizational structure, appoints and disciplines personnel with Board approval, prepares annual and periodic reports, and performs duties assigned by the Board.
The Coconut Coordinating Council (CCC), the Philippine Coconut Administration (PHILCOA), and the Philippine Coconut Research Institute (PHILCORIN) were abolished and their functions and resources transferred to the Authority.
The Authority is attached to the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources for purposes of coordinating plans and policies.
It can regulate marketing and export including setting quotas whenever the national interest requires.
Yes, it can accept donations, grants, gifts, and assistance from various foundations and borrow funds from local and international institutions subject to Central Bank regulations.
The unconstitutional provision shall apply only to that part, and the remainder of the decree remains valid.