QuestionsQuestions (PCA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 02, S. OF 2008)
To suspend nationwide the issuance of Permits to Cut Coconut Trees (PCCTs) and corresponding Transport-Transhipment Clearances (TTCs), except only for limited, specified circumstances, as a measure to curb illegal coconut tree cutting.
It reflects a policy of general prohibition on cutting coconut trees, while recognizing limited exceptions subject to PCA verification.
All issuances of Permits to Cut Coconut Trees (PCCTs) and the corresponding Transport-Transhipment Clearances (TTCs).
When the trees pose threat and danger to life, limb, or property.
Duly issued land use conversion orders by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and crop conversion orders by the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Not exceeding five (5) trees for family housing or an animal shed.
Maximum load capacity of three (3) metric tons or 2,000 board feet of coco lumber.
The TTC is for transport within the province only and only for the volume allowed by the vehicle-capacity limits.
It shall be made jointly by the Provincial Coconut Development Manager (PCDM), the Barangay Chairman of the place where the trees are located, and (for typhoon damaged trees) the head of the Disaster Coordinating Council in the province.
They are no longer processed, and the application fees paid are refunded to the applicant upon submission of the original Official Receipt (OR) evidencing payment.
The circular does not give a specific refund-processing period; it requires refund upon submission of the original OR showing payment.
A report of all pending applications within their provinces, submitted to the Office of the Administrator not later than five (5) days from receipt of the order.
Application number; name of applicant; date of application; OR number and amount paid for application fees; location of coconut trees; number of trees; and reason for cutting.
The report must indicate the number of the PCCT corresponding to each TTC issued.
Since exceptions require PCA verification, PCA has inherent power and prerogative to withhold determination to attain the law’s essential objective of conserving productive coconut trees.
It takes effect immediately after publication in three (3) newspapers of general circulation.