Question & AnswerQ&A (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 917)
All mossy forests, protection forests, critical watersheds, proclaimed watershed reservations supporting government dam projects or domestic water supply facilities, mangrove forests needed for foreshore protection and marine life maintenance, special forests that are habitats of rare and endangered Philippine flora and fauna, and certain designated forest lands within timber concessions and near Palanan Point in Isabela are declared Wilderness Areas.
At least five percent (5%) of the total forest land area covered by the timber concession, exclusive of mossy or protection forests, must be declared as Wilderness Areas.
The Director of Forest Development is responsible for informing timber license holders in writing to identify such areas based on provided guidelines.
If the license holders fail to identify such areas within sixty (60) days from the date of notice, the Director of Forest Development shall proceed to identify these areas and undertake necessary actions.
Yes, the construction of foot trails, pathways, or similar structures intended to make these areas accessible to the public for recreation and similar purposes is allowed.
The declaration serves the interest of national security and uses natural boundaries and identifiable landmarks to define the Wilderness Area.
Greenbelts are areas near, bordering, or surrounding population centers such as barrios, municipalities, and cities where all forms of development activities are strictly controlled.
Other government agencies assist in the development and maintenance of Greenbelts alongside the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The Minister of Natural Resources, upon recommendation of the Director of Forest Development, must submit the boundaries of the Wilderness Areas or Greenbelts for proclamation.
In Wilderness Areas, occupancy or use is prohibited except for minor constructions for public access and recreation. In Greenbelts, developmental activities are allowed but must be strictly controlled and conform to a comprehensive development plan.
The Minister of Natural Resources and the Director of Forest Development, in consultation with appropriate government agencies, are authorized to promulgate and adopt necessary measures, rules, and regulations.