Objectives of the Act
- Develop responsible, community-based ecological tourism.
- Ensure conservation and preservation of biodiversity and the park.
- Develop employment and livelihood through ecotourism consistent with resource preservation.
- Ensure equitable sharing of economic benefits to local residents, supporting small community-based tourism enterprises.
- Guarantee educational and enriching ecotourism programs.
- Ensure local residents' needs (water, food, energy, construction materials) are prioritized.
Definitions of Key Terms
- Buffer Zone: Areas adjacent to BWNP with special control to protect the park.
- Community-based Ecotourism: Tourism controlled and managed substantially by locals with economic benefits retained within the community.
- Ecotourism: Sustainable tourism fostering community participation, natural resource protection, cultural practice, and environmental education.
- Homestay: Tourist accommodation within local residents' homes to experience community life.
- Responsible Ecotourism: Tourism involving responsibility by sector and tourists for environmental and cultural conservation with community participation.
Declaration of Balanga Wetland and Nature Park Ecotourism Zone
- The BWNP in Barangay Tortugas, City of Balanga, Bataan, is declared a responsible community-based ecotourism zone.
- Subject to priority development by concerned national agencies and national ecotourism rules.
Scope, Coverage, and Boundaries
- BWNP covers 153,578 sq. meters mangrove forest and 187,500 sq. meters foreshore land.
- Detailed metes and bounds for both mangrove forest and foreshore are prescribed.
- Boundaries must be indicated on maps; modifications require congressional action following consultations.
Establishment and Management of Buffer Zones
- Buffer zones surrounding BWNP provide protection with applicable restrictions.
- Managed according to the ecotourism development and management plan.
- No detrimental build-up or reclamation allowed within buffer zones.
- The Council has authority over buffer zones.
Ecotourism Development and Management Plan
- DENR, DOT, DPWH, and TIEZA assist the Council in formulating the BWNP management plan.
- Plan components include:
- Carrying capacity
- Site assessment
- Strategic priorities
- Local income product development
- Community capacity-building
- Local production groups and marketing
- Marketing strategies
- Water quality monitoring
- Mangrove management
- Waste management
- Addressing declining waterbird populations
- Plan formulation is participatory and bottom-up.
- Foreshore areas cannot be leased to private entities.
Formation and Composition of the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park Development Council
- Multi-sectoral Council created to manage BWNP.
- Members include city and provincial government officials, national agency representatives, academic institutions, private sector, NGOs or people's organizations.
- Ex officio members serve while holding office; other members serve 3-year renewable terms.
- 40% membership requirement for women as per Magna Carta of Women.
- Grounds for removal stated.
- Secretariat provided by City of Balanga.
Functions and Responsibilities of the Council
- Formulate and implement the ecotourism development and management plan.
- Provide technical and financial assistance to local communities.
- Monitor waterbird populations and habitats.
- Formulate rules for site maintenance and security.
- Perform necessary functions to achieve Act objectives.
Guidelines and Standards Formulation
- DENR and DOT assist in formulating local ecotourism standards.
- Standards ensure environmental protection integration.
- Key focuses:
- Stakeholder capacity building
- Optimal water and energy use
- Waste reduction and recycling
- Prevention of vandalism
- Support for local produce and employment
Coordination with National Agencies
- DENR and DOT coordinate with Council and regional offices of DOLE, DPWH, DOTr, DA, DepEd, DTI, DILG, PNP, MARINA, and other agencies for Act implementation.
Implementing Rules and Regulations
- DENR and DOT shall promulgate rules within 30 days from the law's effectivity.
- Consultation with Council and stakeholders required for rule-making.
Appropriations and Funding
- DENR, DOT, DPWH, and TIEZA to fund BWNP capital outlay from current fiscal budgets.
- Future funding included in General Appropriations Act subject to audit.
Separability and Repealing Clauses
- Unconstitutional provisions do not affect other valid provisions.
- Conflicting laws, decrees, and regulations repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect 15 days after publication in at least two national newspapers or the Official Gazette.