Constitutional Policy Basis
- Section 1 of Republic Act No. 11700 anchors the policy on Section 1, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution, which directs the State to promote industrialization and full employment based on sound agricultural development and agrarian reform.
- The constitutional framework emphasizes industries that make full and efficient use of human and natural resources and remain competitive in both domestic and foreign markets.
- Republic Act No. 11700 recognizes the abaca industry as a driver of rural development because of its singular potential as raw material that can increase the country’s export earnings.
- Republic Act No. 11700 recognizes abaca’s livelihood impact, particularly for many small farmers in the countryside.
Declaration: Catanduanes as Abaca Capital
- Section 2 declares Catanduanes as the Abaca Capital of the Philippines.
- The declaration is made in recognition of Catanduanes as the country’s biggest producer of abaca.
- The declaration is also made to support agricultural development in Catanduanes.
- Section 2 further recognizes the Philippines as world-renowned as a “Manila Hempa” in the fiber industry.
Repeal of Inconsistent Rules
- Section 3 repeals or modifies any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, rule, or regulation that is inconsistent or contrary to Republic Act No. 11700.
- Section 3 provides that the repeal or modification operates accordingly to harmonize with the provisions of Republic Act No. 11700.