Law Summary

Introduction

Executive Order No. 682, issued on November 22, 2007, by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, designates Calapan City as the Regional Center for Region IV-B, also known as the MIMAROPA Region. This order aims to enhance regional development, improve government service delivery, and stimulate economic growth.

Policy Objective

• Explanation: The Philippine government aims to promote regional development to accelerate economic growth and achieve sustainable national development.
• Key Points:
  • Fostering regional centers enhances government service delivery.
  • Establishing a government center in the region is essential for economic activity.

Designation of Regional Center

• Provision: Calapan City is designated as the Regional Center of Region IV-B.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Regional Center": A designated location intended to facilitate government operations and economic activities in a specific region.
• Requirements:
  • The City Government of Calapan is tasked with identifying and administering the site for the Regional Center.

Funding Mechanism

• Provision: Funding for the development and maintenance of the Regional Center may come from various sources.
• Important Details:
  • Funds can be sourced from:
    • Internally generated funds of Local Government Units (LGUs).
    • National government allocations.
    • Contributions from private and business sectors as allowed by law.

Development and Strategy Implementation

• Provision: The development of the Regional Center is aimed at creating a new government center to stimulate economic activities.
• Key Points:
  • The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Regional Office IV-B will collaborate with relevant agencies and local government units to formulate a program and strategy.
  • This program will be submitted to the Regional Development Council for approval and inclusion in the regional investment priority plan.

Relocation of Regional Offices

• Provision: All Regional Offices in Region IV-B are required to relocate to the new Regional Center.
• Important Requirements:
  • Satellite offices must be established within six (6) months of the order's effectivity.
  • Full transfer of offices must be completed within eighteen (18) months.
• Employee Impact: Relocation plans must address the concerns of employees affected by the transfer.

Agency Roles and Responsibilities

• Provision: Heads of government departments, agencies, and corporations must support the transfer and development of the Regional Center.
• Key Points:
  • Cooperation from all relevant government entities is mandated to ensure a smooth transition to the new center.

Reporting Requirements

• Provision: The Regional Development Council IV-B must provide regular status reports.
• Important Details:
  • Reports will be submitted to the Office of the President and must include updates on compliance and implementation progress.

Repealing Clause

• Provision: Any inconsistent orders or issuances are repealed or modified.
• Key Points: This clause ensures that the new order supersedes previous directives conflicting with its provisions.

Effectivity

• Provision: The order takes effect immediately upon issuance.

Key Takeaways

• Designation: Calapan City is officially the Regional Center for the MIMAROPA Region.
• Funding: Development funds can be sourced from multiple channels, including local and national government.
• Relocation Timeline: Immediate establishment of satellite offices and full relocation within specified timeframes.
• Collaborative Development: Emphasis on inter-agency cooperation and regular progress reporting to ensure effective implementation.