Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1208)
The primary purpose of Presidential Decree No. 1208 is to create the Abaca Industry Development Authority (AIDA) to promote the accelerated growth and integrated development of the abaca industry in all its aspects in the Philippines.
The Abaca Industry Development Authority (AIDA) is attached to the Department of Agriculture.
All functions and powers of the Bureau of Fiber Development and Inspection Service (BFDIS) of the Department of Trade pertinent to the abaca industry, except grading and inspection functions, and the Abaca Production and Development Program (APDP) from the Department of Agriculture were transferred to AIDA.
The Board of Directors of AIDA is composed of the Secretary of Agriculture (Chairman), Secretary of Trade, Chairman of Board of Investments, Secretary of Local Governments and Community Development, Governor of the Central Bank, Governor of the Development Bank of the Philippines, President of the Philippine National Bank, and representatives of abaca producers and traders.
The representatives of abaca producers and traders shall hold office for a term of three (3) years unless sooner removed for cause or until their successors have been appointed and qualified.
The Administrator directs and manages the affairs and business of AIDA according to the policies set by the Board, establishes organizational structure upon Board approval, and performs other duties assigned by the Board.
Key powers include formulating integrated programs, regulating research, production, processing, marketing, establishing monitoring systems, negotiating export/shipping contracts, administering price schemes, borrowing funds, and entering contracts to support the abaca industry.
For fiscal years 1977 and 1978, unexpended appropriations from BFDIS and APDP were transferred to AIDA. AIDA may also impose fees, receive grants, subsidies, donations, or contributions and retain such funds for its operation.
According to the Separability Clause, if any provision is held unconstitutional, the validity of other provisions shall not be affected.