Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1599)
The main purpose of Presidential Decree No. 1599 is to establish an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines extending 200 nautical miles from its baselines for the economic survival and development of the country.
The exclusive economic zone extends to a distance of two hundred nautical miles beyond and from the baselines from which the territorial sea is measured.
If the EEZ overlaps with that of a neighboring state, the common boundaries shall be determined by agreement with the state concerned or in accordance with recognized principles of international law on delimitation.
The Philippines exercises sovereign rights for the exploration, exploitation, conservation, and management of natural resources, exclusive rights over artificial islands and structures, preservation of the marine environment, scientific research, and other rights recognized by international law.
No, foreign entities cannot explore, exploit resources, conduct research, or construct structures in the EEZ without an agreement, license, or authority granted by the Republic of the Philippines.
Philippine citizens, whether natural or juridical, are not prohibited from performing activities such as exploration or construction in the EEZ if allowed under existing laws.
Other states enjoy freedoms relating to navigation and overflight, laying of submarine cables and pipelines, and other internationally lawful uses related to navigation and communications.
Violators are subject to fines from P2,000 to P100,000 or imprisonment from six months to ten years, or both, plus seizure and forfeiture of vessels and equipment used.
The President may authorize the appropriate government office or agency to make and promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of the decree.
The decree took effect thirty days after its publication in the Official Gazette.