Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 15)
The government policy is to conserve, protect, rehabilitate, and develop the remaining mangrove resources for optimum productivity, give preference to organizations over individuals in utilization and development, stop wanton exploitation, and enhance the replenishment of denuded areas.
Alienable or Disposable Lands are public domain lands classified and certified as not needed for forestry purposes.
A Communal Mangrove Forest is a public forest set aside for the exclusive use of residents of a municipality to cut, collect, or remove mangrove products for home consumption following existing laws and regulations.
No, conversion of thickly vegetated mangrove areas into fishponds is no longer allowed under this Order.
Generally, no. Fishponds are not allowed in these areas, but legally acquired productive fishponds may be compensated if reverted to forest lands in the public interest.
Only sustainable activities indicated in an approved Management Plan are allowed; conversion for fishponds, saltworks, or paddy cultivation is prohibited.
A permit from the DENR is required before cutting trees in FLA areas, and the cut trees must be turned over to DENR for public bidding with FLA holders given the right to match the highest bid.
The concerned Regional Offices of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in coordination with the Department of Agriculture, are responsible.
Violations shall be penalized according to existing laws and regulations governing mangrove resources.