Question & AnswerQ&A (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 845)
The main subject is the jurisdiction, control, regulation, protection, development, management, and rehabilitation of watershed areas and reservations, specifically for the Pantabangan Dam in Nueva Ecija and Magat Dam in Isabela.
Jurisdiction over watershed areas is vested to the Ministry of Energy under Presidential Decree No. 1515.
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is the implementing agency responsible for the protection and rehabilitation of the watershed areas for Pantabangan Dam and Magat Dam.
The Ministry of Energy has jurisdiction, control, and regulation over all watershed areas and reservations proclaimed or that may be proclaimed by the President of the Philippines.
Yes, pursuant to Sections 2 and 3 of Presidential Decree No. 1515, the Ministry of Energy may exercise its functions and responsibilities over watershed areas through any government agency or instrumentality.
The objectives include protecting existing and proposed irrigation works and hydro-electric power plants, conserving and prolonging the lifespan of the dams, and maintaining ecological and flood control programs.
The rules and regulations must be subject to the approval of the President of the Philippines.
Yes, the National Irrigation Administration in coordination with the Ministry of Energy shall prescribe penalties for violations related to the management of watershed areas in accordance with existing laws.
Yes, it explicitly states that any provision of existing law to the contrary is notwithstanding and that the jurisdiction and control of watershed areas by the Ministry of Energy shall prevail.
This Letter of Instructions took effect immediately upon its signing on April 16, 1979.