Prohibition of Coral Activities
- It is unlawful for any person or corporation to gather, possess, sell, or export ordinary, precious, and semi-precious corals.
- This prohibition covers corals in both raw and processed forms.
Exceptions for Research
- The Secretary of Agriculture, through the Director of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, may issue special permits to research institutions.
- Permits allow gathering limited quantities of any coral strictly for scientific or research purposes.
- Corals listed in the CITES Appendix are excluded from this exception and remain fully protected.
Penalties for Violations
- Offenders face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years.
- A fine ranging from P2,000 to P20,000 may be imposed.
- The court has discretion to impose either or both penalties.
- Confiscation of the corals involved and the vessel used is mandated, with proper disposition required.
Disposition of Confiscated Corals
- Confiscated corals shall be:
- Returned to the sea, or
- Donated to educational institutions such as schools and museums for scientific and educational use, or
- Otherwise disposed of in a manner most beneficial to the government.
Repealing Clause
- Any existing administrative orders, rules, or regulations inconsistent with this Order are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- This Order shall take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette and/or in two newspapers of general circulation.