Law Summary

Introduction

This order establishes guidelines for implementing the Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) in protected areas, pursuant to Republic Act No. 7586 (NIPAS Act) and in alignment with the Philippines' commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the BMS are to:

• Provide standardized monitoring methods for population trends of indicator/priority species and land uses.
• Generate up-to-date information necessary for the effective management of protected areas.
• Engage local communities and stakeholders in information generation.
• Enhance the capabilities of protected area staff and local communities in data handling.

Key Details:

• Simple and cost-effective monitoring methods
• Systematic information generation for management
• Community involvement in data collection
• Capability strengthening for staff and stakeholders

Scope

The BMS will be implemented across all protected areas and will become an integral part of regular protected area management activities.

Key Details:

• Applicable to all protected areas
• Regular activity in protected area management

Definition of Terms

• Biodiversity: The variety and variability among living organisms and their ecological complexes.
• Indicator/priority species: Species that provide insight into the state of biodiversity within a protected area.

Procedure for BMS Implementation

The BMS implementation involves several phases:

1. Training

• The Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) will conduct a Trainers Training Program.
• Regional Offices will carry out subsequent training sessions for various stakeholders.

Key Details:

• Participants include Protected Area Superintendents (PASu), local community representatives, and DENR personnel.
• Training to be included in DENR-Human Resource Management Services programs.

2. On-Site Implementation

• The PASu and staff will implement the BMS using methods prescribed by DENR-PAWB.

Key Details:

• Direct responsibility of PASu and staff in implementing designated methods.

3. Submission of BMS Reports

• The PASu must submit BMS reports through the CENRO and PENRO to the Regional Executive Director and subsequently to the PAWB Director, who will compile an annual report for the Secretary.

Key Details:

• Reports to be submitted quarterly, aligned with regular CENRO and PENRO reports.
• Reports to inform PAMB management decisions.

4. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Annual monitoring and evaluation will be conducted by the Regional Offices and PAWB, with quarterly assessments of BMS results.

Key Details:

• Annual evaluations by Regional Offices
• Quarterly monitoring of results

Fund Allocation

• Regional Offices are responsible for allocating necessary funds for BMS activities.

Key Details:

• Budget allocation is mandatory for implementation.

Effectivity

• This order is effective immediately upon adoption on February 9, 2000.

Key Takeaways

• The BMS aims to improve biodiversity management in protected areas through standardized monitoring and community involvement.
• Key stakeholders, including PASu, CENRO, PENRO, and local communities, play critical roles in training and implementation.
• Regular reporting and evaluation are essential for the ongoing effectiveness of the BMS.
• The order emphasizes the importance of funding for the sustainability of biodiversity monitoring efforts in protected areas.