Functions and Responsibilities of NETFORCE
- Development of action plans to control illegal cutting of coconut trees in violation of RA 8048
- Organization of Regional Composite Teams with member agencies under the supervision of the Philippine National Police Chief
- Inclusion of Department of Justice investigators or prosecutors in Regional Composite Teams for investigation and filing complaints
- Establishment of detachment stations and designation of roving inspectors and patrols to:
- Monitor and report cutting, processing, transport, or movement of coconut lumber
- Inspect sawmills, chainsaw operators, lumber dealers, and related entities for compliance
- Arrest violators and seize illegally cut coconut trees, processed lumber, tools, and transport vehicles pending investigation
Authority of Local Government Units (LGUs)
- LGUs have jurisdiction to verify the authenticity and validity of cutting permits within their area
- LGUs empowered to apprehend violators and seize or confiscate illegally cut or processed coconut trees, implements used in illegal cutting or processing, and transport vehicles
- Authority granted pursuant to the Local Government Code (RA 7160)
Administrative Penalties for Responsible Officials
- Suspension or dismissal of Philippine Coconut Authority officials or barangay officials who permit, tolerate, or conspire in violations of RA 8048 or implementing rules
- Disciplinary actions based on the Omnibus Rules implementing the Administrative Code of 1987 and penal sanctions of RA 8048
- Joint responsibility of PCA provincial managers, coconut development officers, and barangay officials to ensure replanting of coconut trees within three months from cutting
- Failure to replant constitutes prima facie evidence of violation with grounds for charges against responsible officials
Funding and Support for Enforcement Operations
- Philippine Coconut Authority to allocate funds from its corporate operating budget
- Additional funding from at least 10% of fees collected from cutting permit issuance
- Funding to support NETFORCE operations, regional teams, detachment stations, inspectors, and patrols
Implementation and Effectivity
- NETFORCE authorized to adopt implementing guidelines necessary to enforce this Executive Order
- Executive Order effective immediately upon issuance on January 30, 2000