Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 7822)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 7822 is to declare Limasawa Island in the Province of Southern Leyte as a tourist zone and promote its development as such.
The Department of Tourism is primarily responsible for the development of Limasawa Island as a tourist zone under this Act.
Within one year from the approval of this Act, the Department of Tourism, in coordination with the Philippine Tourism Authority and other concerned government agencies, is required to prepare a tourism development plan for Limasawa Island.
The tourism development plan should provide for the construction, installation, and/or maintenance of appropriate facilities and infrastructure to encourage tourism while ensuring the protection and preservation of the island's natural beauty and historical significance.
Yes, the law specifically requires that the tourism development plan ensure the protection and preservation of Limasawa Island's natural beauty and historical significance.
The Philippine Tourism Authority coordinates with the Department of Tourism and other concerned government agencies in preparing the tourism development plan for Limasawa Island.
Once approved, the Department of Tourism shall take immediate steps to expedite the implementation of the plan and incorporate it into the Department's overall tourism development program for the subsequent calendar year.
The Department of Tourism has the authority to promulgate the rules and regulations necessary for the proper implementation of this Act.
Republic Act No. 7822 took effect upon its approval on November 18, 1994.
The Act declares Limasawa Island as a tourist zone without specifying a time limitation, implying the declaration is permanent unless repealed or amended by law.