Feasibility Study and Management Transfer
- BFAR-DA must conduct a comprehensive feasibility study before the construction of the hatcheries, in compliance with Department of Budget and Management requirements.
- Within two years after construction, BFAR-DA shall transfer management of the hatcheries to the local government of the City of Calbayog through a memorandum of agreement.
- A training and phasing-in program will be implemented for local government personnel to ensure competent management and operational handover of the hatcheries.
Research and Technological Development
- BFAR-DA is tasked to conduct ongoing research and experimentation on breeding and production methods of inland freshwater fish.
- Emphasis is on adapting technologies to local conditions to enhance productivity and foster innovation in the fishing industry.
Funding and Appropriations
- The Secretary of Agriculture must include budgetary provisions for the feasibility study and the establishment of the hatcheries in the Department’s programs.
- Funding for the hatcheries is to be included in the General Appropriations Act.
- The concerned local government units (LGUs) are required to allocate appropriate funds from local revenues to support the operationalization of the hatcheries.
Rulemaking and Implementation
- Within 60 days from the law’s effectivity, the Secretary of Agriculture will issue rules and regulations governing the supervision, operation, monitoring, and eventual transfer of the hatcheries to the LGUs.
Effectivity of the Law
- The law takes effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.
Legal and Procedural Notes
- The law lapsed into effect without the President’s signature, in accordance with the Philippine Constitution, Article VI, Section 27 (1).
- The enactment reflects collaboration between the legislative branches and the executive department in fulfilling agricultural and fishery development objectives.