Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 672)
The PRA is mandated to approve all reclamation projects on behalf of the President, subject to compliance with existing laws and rules as reiterated in Executive Order No. 672.
The PRA must coordinate with and secure from the DENR a permit authorizing or clearing a particular area to be the site of the proposed reclamation project, known as the area permit or site clearance.
Yes, prior to the implementation of duly approved reclamation projects, the ECC must be secured from the DENR and no reclamation works may commence without it.
The DENR monitors and enforces strict compliance with the terms and conditions of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for the reclamation project.
The PRA closely monitors and supervises the overall implementation of reclamation projects, while the DENR specifically monitors compliance with the ECC terms and conditions.
After completion, the PRA and DENR undertake the survey of the reclaimed land, and upon request or clearance from PRA, the DENR indorses to the President the issuance of a proclamation classifying portions of the reclaimed land as alienable or disposable and portions retained for public use.
They are titled in the name of the Republic of the Philippines as portions devoted to public use and public service.
The PRA is authorized to transfer titles, either for a consideration or otherwise, to qualified persons, natural or juridical, who may own reclaimed lands pursuant to the 1987 Constitution and subject to existing laws and regulations.
Presidential Decree No. 3-A of January 11, 1973, provides that reclamation of areas under water shall be limited to the National Government or any person authorized by it under a proper contract.