Question & AnswerQ&A (NMP OFFICE ORDER NO. 2011- 83)
The policy of the State is that the discovery and recovery of hidden treasures and their disposition shall be under the full control and supervision of the State to ensure the interest of the Government, including rehabilitation of disturbed areas and preservation of important cultural properties and national cultural treasures.
The guidelines govern the issuance of permits for treasure hunting activities in government and private lands, as well as the disposition of recovered hidden treasures or valuables hoarded prior to the effectivity of the guidelines. They do not cover discovery or recovery of cultural and historical artifacts which are governed by other laws such as RA 4846 and RA 10066.
Individuals who are Filipino citizens of legal age and have capacity to contract, and partnerships, associations, or corporations organized for the purpose of treasure hunting, duly registered and financially and technically capable.
Applicants must submit a personal or corporate information sheet, SEC registration (if applicable), articles of incorporation, consent of landowner or concerned government agencies, area clearance, joint venture agreements if any, free and prior informed consent of indigenous cultural communities, and environmental compliance documents if in critical areas.
Applicants must submit a technical description of the site with coordinates, a technical work program outlining activities and costs, an environmental work program including restoration plans, and the curriculum vitae of technical personnel involved.
Latest income or corporate tax returns, audited financial statements if applicable, and proofs of funding such as bank guarantees, credit lines, or cash deposits.
The permit is valid for one year and is renewable once for another year upon payment of the application fee, submission of updated work programs, certification of accomplishments, area clearances, proof of financial capability, and payment of bond.
Key terms include 'Area Clearance,' 'Artifacts,' 'Digging,' 'Environmental Compliance Certificate,' 'Hidden Treasure,' 'Permit,' 'Private Land,' 'Relics,' 'Technical Work Program,' and 'Treasure Hunting,' among others defined precisely in the guidelines.
Violations shall be penalized in accordance with RA 10066, the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.