QuestionsQuestions (LETTER OF INSTRUCTION NO. 69)
It aims to expedite the acquisition of private lands urgently needed for government infrastructure projects by directing faster release and processing of land survey and technical documents needed for expropriation cases.
The Letter is addressed to the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources, with attention to the Director of Lands (Bureau of Lands).
The Bureau of Lands should immediately make available survey plans, technical descriptions, and other related data needed to facilitate the filing of expropriation cases.
Survey Plans, Technical Descriptions, and other related data needed by the requesting agency for expropriation proceedings.
It directs the Bureau of Lands to immediately process, evaluate, and/or approve Survey Returns submitted by any government agency when these are necessary to facilitate acquisition of urgently needed private lands for infrastructure.
It limits or contextualizes the expedited processing and availability of documents to situations involving urgent acquisition needs for infrastructure projects.
It is designed to support and accelerate the expropriation process by ensuring that necessary land survey and technical requirements are promptly provided for agencies to file cases.
Administrative directive to Bureau of Lands offices to immediately provide technical documents and immediately process/approve Survey Returns requested or submitted by government agencies.
The Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Director of Lands (Bureau of Lands), plus the requesting government agencies that need survey and technical documents for expropriation filings.
It is a directive emphasizing mandatory, prompt implementation of LOI No. 69’s requirements, not merely advisory action.
It was done in the City of Manila on March 31, 1973, and signed by Ferdinand E. Marcos.
The LOI reflects concern over delays and orders faster administrative turnaround (immediate availability and immediate processing/approval) to avoid hindering expropriation filings.
It does not itself authorize expropriation; it focuses on administrative facilitation—providing survey/technical documents and approving Survey Returns to enable expropriation cases to be filed and pursued.
Delays in obtaining and approving survey and technical documents required for expropriation, which can postpone or obstruct timely acquisition of private lands.