Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 97-24)
The main objective is to provide public access to all official data or information resulting from official acts, transactions, or decisions of the Department involving public interest, promote timely delivery of reliable information, encourage constructive use of information, and safeguard unauthorized acquisition of classified or sensitive data.
It aligns with the Philippine Constitution provisions on transparency, Republic Act 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officers and Employees), Memorandum Circular No. 78 (Security of Classified Matter in Government), and Memorandum Circular No. 89 (National Government Policy on Accessibility and Transparency).
All DENR-generated documents, records, communications, and materials prepared by officers, employees, or commissioned non-government entities; data or information submitted by DENR clientele concerning their ENR applications or proposals; and statements given by DENR officials during interviews or press conferences are covered.
Documents are classified into five categories: For General/Public Circulation (PC), For Limited Circulation (LC), Restricted Documents (RD), Confidential Documents (CD), and Top Secret/Secret Documents (TS/S).
Documents classified as For General/Public Circulation (PC) should be made available to the public without the need for a formal or written request.
Access to LC documents requires a formal written request stating the purpose, and possibly payment of reproduction fees, with approval at the discretion of the concerned Director or designated officer.
Confidential documents are solely available to concerned DENR officials or personnel. Disclosure rests on the discretion of the DENR Secretary, designated officer, higher official, or court order.
Violations can result in legal action, including suspension from six months to one year for the first offense and dismissal for the second offense, per Rules Implementing RA 6713, Civil Service laws, and the Revised Penal Code.
The receiving office or succeeding offices may reclassify documents depending on subsequent actions or policies, and replace the classification label accordingly.