Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 561)
The primary purpose is to create the Commission on the Settlement of Land Problems to provide an effective administrative body for the expeditious settlement of land problems, preventing social unrest and facilitating government programs.
The Commission is placed under the Office of the President.
The Commission is composed of three members: one Commissioner and two Associate Commissioners, all appointed by the President.
The Commissioner receives a salary equivalent to an Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals, and the Associate Commissioners receive salaries equivalent to those of Judges of the Court of First Instance.
The Commission coordinates the activities, particularly investigations, of various government offices and agencies involved in land dispute settlements to streamline administrative procedures.
The Commission may assume jurisdiction in critical and explosive cases involving occupants/squatters versus leaseholders, government reservation grantees, public land claimants, petitions for classification or release of public domain lands, and other similar urgent land problems.
Such resolutions, orders, or decisions have the force and effect of a regular administrative resolution, are binding on the parties and agencies involved, become final and executory within 30 days, and are appealable only by certiorari to the Supreme Court.
The Commission, through its Commissioner, may issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum for witnesses and documents, and may call upon any government ministry, office, agency, or local government for assistance.
Yes, the Commission may establish provincial offices when conditions in any province warrant it, delegating such powers and functions as necessary.
The Presidential Action Committee on Land Problems is abolished, and its functions, appropriations, records, property, equipment, and necessary personnel are transferred to the new Commission.