Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1178)
The main policy is to ensure self-reliance in producing and maintaining maps, promote efficiency through integration and coordination, encourage inter-agency information exchange, centralize aerial photography planning under the Department of National Defense, consider all aerial photography negatives as state property, and simplify procedures without compromising security.
The Secretary of National Defense exercises control and supervision over all aerial photography and photomapping activities, including processing, handling, distribution, reproduction, safekeeping, and final disposition.
No. No aerial photography shall be taken without prior clearance from the Secretary of National Defense or his duly designated representative.
All negatives and reproducibles of aerial photographs are considered the property of the State and must be deposited according to classification status: classified materials with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and when declassified, with the Bureau of Coast and Geodetic Survey.
The penalty is imprisonment from six to twelve years, a fine not exceeding twenty thousand pesos (P20,000.00), or both, as directed by the court.
The penalty is imprisonment from six months to six years, a fine not exceeding ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00), or both, as directed by the court.
The Bureau of Coast and Geodetic Survey is responsible for storing declassified aerial photographs and may provide copies to any person, firm, or entity.
It repeals Republic Act No. 2912 and modifies or repeals conflicting provisions of existing laws, rules, and regulations.
Mapping activities are essential for national development and security; therefore, the Department of National Defense is mandated to coordinate these activities to maximize efficiency and information utilization.
Only persons cleared by the Secretary of National Defense or his duly authorized representative are allowed access to classified materials.