Creation of Caliraya Development Commission

Executive Order No. 383
Ferdinand E. Marcos establishes the Caliraya Development Commission to enhance and protect the Caliraya watershed as a premier tourist destination, while fostering Philippine-Japan relations and ensuring environmental conservation.

Policy, purpose, and governing intent

  • The creation is grounded on the need to expand and develop existing and potential tourist spots.
  • The order links development of the Caliraya watershed to an international commitment involving the Japanese Memorial Shrine and Garden, to symbolize amity and friendship between the Philippines and Japan.
  • The order directs that the Caliraya watershed—including the Japanese Shrine—be developed and beautified to fulfill assurances given to Japan through its leadership.
  • The order treats Caliraya watershed as a key power source requiring protected development because it is already a reserve watershed under Executive Order No. 33 dated July 26, 1904.
  • The order aims to rapidly develop the area and transform it into a tourist attraction while maintaining watershed protection.

Commission creation and composition

  • A Caliraya Development Commission is created to carry out the objectives stated in the order.
  • The Commission is composed of the following officials and members:
    • Mrs. Imelda R. Marcos as Honorary Chairman.
    • The General Manager, National Power Corporation as Executive Officer.
    • The Commissioner, Board of Travel and Tourist Industry as Member.
    • A representative of the Philippine Tourist and Travel Association, Inc. as Member.
    • Manuel Nieto, Jr. as Member.
    • Maximo T. Kalaw, Jr. as Member.
    • The Secretary of Public Works and Communications as Member.
    • The Director of Lands as Member.
    • The Mayor of Cavinti, Laguna as Member.
    • A representative of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as Member.

Powers and functions of the Commission

  • The Commission is empowered to make proper representations with various government agencies in support of:
    • Protection of watershed areas.
    • Propagation and preservation of wildlife.
    • Reforestation.
    • Seeding of the lake with fresh-water fishes.
    • Establishment of security measures.
  • The Commission is empowered to establish policies and guidelines for the proper use of the lake and its amenities.
  • The Commission is empowered to promote and encourage joint ventures with foreign governments or foreign or local investors for development of the Lake and environs for tourist and recreational purposes.
  • The Commission is empowered to draft legislation to protect Caliraya Lake from:
    • Water pollution.
    • Sedimentation.
    • Reduction of water elevation.
  • The Commission may request any department, bureau, office, agency, or instrumentality of the Government for assistance needed to perform its functions.

Watershed and environmental protection linkage

  • Development directives in the order operate within the framework that Caliraya watershed has been declared a reserve watershed to protect the area from:
    • Illegal logging.
    • Encroachment of squatters.
    • Water pollution.
  • The Commission’s functions specifically include representations and drafting intended to protect against water pollution, sedimentation, and reduction of water elevation affecting Caliraya Lake.

Revocation and governing replacement

  • Executive Order No. 365, dated January 11, 1972, is revoked.

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