Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1586)
The main policy is to attain and maintain a rational and orderly balance between socio-economic growth and environmental protection.
An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System is established, requiring all government agencies and private entities to submit an environmental impact statement for projects significantly affecting the environment.
The Minister of Human Settlements or his designated representative is authorized to name the lead agencies responsible for preparing environmental impact statements on declared environmentally critical projects and areas.
The President may, on his own initiative or upon recommendation of the National Environmental Protection Council, declare certain projects or areas as environmentally critical by proclamation.
No such project or area can be undertaken or operated without first securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate issued by the President or his authorized representative.
The Ministry prepares proper land or water use patterns, establishes ambient environmental quality standards, develops programs for environmental protection against calamities, and performs other functions directed by the President.
No, environmentally non-critical projects are not required to submit an environmental impact statement, but the National Environmental Protection Council may require additional environmental safeguards if necessary.
Violators may face suspension or cancellation of their certificate and/or a fine not exceeding Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50,000.00) for every violation at the discretion of the National Environmental Protection Council.
The fund, sourced from penalties, is used exclusively for the operation of the National Environmental Protection Council and the National Pollution Control Commission in implementing the decree.
The powers and responsibilities of the Inter-Agency Advisory Council of the National Pollution Control Commission created under Section 4 of P.D. 984 were abolished and transferred to the National Environmental Protection Council.