Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 2002-04, JANUARY 22, 2002)
The state policy declares that the discovery and recovery of hidden treasures, shipwrecks/sunken vessels, and valuable cargoes shall be undertaken under the full control and supervision of the State to protect government interests, rehabilitate disturbed areas, and preserve important cultural properties and national cultural treasures.
The Order governs the issuance of permits for treasure hunting activities on government or private land, shipwreck/sunken vessel recovery activities, and disposition of recovered hidden treasures or valuable cargoes including hoarded treasures.
No, permits for recovery of cultural and historical materials such as art objects, archaeological artifacts, and relics are governed by Republic Act No. 8492, the National Museum Act of 1998, and not by this Administrative Order.
Filipino citizens of legal age with capacity to contract and capable of conducting the activities may apply as individuals. Partnerships, associations, or corporations organized for the purpose and duly registered with technical and financial capability may also apply.
Applicants must submit legal and administrative documents (e.g., registration certificates, consents from landowners), technical requirements (e.g., detailed site description, work and environmental programs), and financial documents (e.g., tax returns, financial statements, proof of funding).
For treasure hunting on public lands, 75% goes to the government and 25% to the permit holder; for private lands, sharing is agreed upon among the government, permit holder, and landowner; for shipwreck recovery, sharing is 50% to the government and 50% to the permit holder.
Violations will be penalized in accordance with existing applicable laws, rules, and regulations, though specific penalties are not detailed in this Order itself.
All information submitted shall be treated as confidential from submission until two years after the expiration of the permit.
The committee consists of the Secretary of DENR or representative as chairperson; technical personnel from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, National Museum, Central Bank, the permit holder or representative; and a Philippine Coast Guard representative if the activity involves shipwreck recovery.