Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9444)
The Atulayan Island of the Municipality of SagAay, Province of Camarines Sur is declared as a national tourism zone.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and its attached agencies, together with the Partido Development Administration (PDA), are responsible for coordinating the formulation of a tourism development plan.
The tourism development plan must be consistent with, or integrated into, the national tourism master plan of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The guiding principles include protecting and enhancing natural features and cultural heritage while providing sustainable economic opportunities for the local community; coordination between DOT, PDA, and municipalities; utilization of R.A. 7820 and the Local Government Code for implementation and enforcement; provision of technical and financial assistance by DOT; and creating a forum for private sector, NGOs, and other groups to interact and encourage investment and tourism culture development.
They should utilize the powers provided under Republic Act No. 7820, as amended, and the Local Government Code respectively to implement and enforce the tourism development plan.
The DOT provides necessary technical and financial assistance for the development of tourism infrastructure and skills development, and promotes the tourism zone locally and internationally as practicable.
The DOT, PDA, and relevant municipalities shall create a forum where private sector, NGOs, and other interest groups can interact with each other and the government to encourage investment and develop a culture of tourism.
The Department of Tourism, in consultation with the Partido Development Administration and the local government concerned, shall adopt the appropriate rules and regulations and enter into agreements needed for implementation.
The Act took effect fifteen (15) days after the completion of its publication.
Republic Act No. 7820 (An Act to Strengthen the Partido Development Administration) and the Local Government Code provide the legal authority and powers to the PDA and local government units to implement and enforce the tourism development plan for Atulayan Island.