Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 13)
The policy is to ensure the sustainability of remaining forest resources by establishing buffer zones between production forests and areas used for agriculture and other purposes, while providing livelihood opportunities to forest occupants.
Buffer zones refer to strips of land with natural or established vegetation providing an added layer of protection to forests where restricted use is allowed for local production benefiting rural communities.
The objectives include protecting exposed natural forests from encroachment and destruction, providing livelihood opportunities to rural communities, and establishing natural landmarks within forest lands.
Priority is given to forestlands and critical mangrove areas along boundaries of population centers or densely populated communities, and accessible forestlands where there are legitimate TLA holders or permittees.
Buffer zones include: 20-meter strips along rivers and streams with channels of at least 5 meters wide; 50 meters fronting seas and 20 meters on both sides of riverbanks for mangroves; 100 meters inward along shorelines in storm-prone areas and 50 meters for river bank protection.
The DENR through the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) is responsible for these activities.
CENRO identifies the buffer zone, validates and demarcates the area, then issues an administrative order declaring the buffer zone and submits it with a map and development plan to the Secretary for approval.
No, established buffer zones shall not be subject to applications for lease or permit.
Gathering of forest products is strictly regulated, tree planting is encouraged, and utilization of forest products may be allowed as long as the protective purpose of the buffer zone is not defeated.
They are jointly managed by the DENR, concerned local government units, and the communities themselves, and products derived shall accrue to the communities.
No, but lessees must reforest the tidal flats fronting their fishpond areas to at least a 50-meter strip whenever practicable.
Violations will be penalized under applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
It requires locating project boundaries, delineating the buffer zone as a 20-meter wide belt outside the area boundary, marking trees, and preparing a development plan for planting and management with community involvement and CENRO approval.
Buffer zones include strips along seashores and rivers of specific widths, marked for easy reference, and require development plans created by CENRO with community participation, planting recommended mangrove species to enhance protection.
Species include Akle, Anchoan, Bamboo, Bangkal, Gmelina, Ipil-ipil, Kalumpang, Lanete, Mahogany, Supa, Narra, Teak, Tibig, Tindalo, Batino, Dita, Ilang-ilang, Dao, Malunggai, and Coconut.