Geographical Boundaries and Description
- Boundaries precisely defined based on natural landmarks and roads:
- Starts at the intersection of Malamote and Pandan Creeks.
- Extends northeast along Taculen-Malamote Road to National Highway.
- Follows the old Kabacan-Kidapawan boundary along the Kabacan River.
- Traces the Pulangi River to its junction with the Arakan River.
- Continues to the source on the Tuail Mountain Range and then south along the Tuail River.
- Moves southwest to the junction of the Magpet and Marbel Rivers and back to the starting point.
- Description supported by official sketch plan prepared by the Office of the District Engineer.
Effect on Parent Municipalities
- The municipalities of Kidapawan, Kabacan, and Malang will lose the included barrios and sitios to Matalam.
- Remaining territories of the original municipalities are defined as their present territories minus the areas transferred.
Conditions for Municipality’s Legal Existence
- Must await:
- Appointment and qualification of the mayor, vice-mayor, and majority of the councilors of Matalam.
- Certification by the Secretary of Finance regarding financial capability to implement the Minimum Wage Law and meet all statutory obligations and provide municipal services.
- Confirmation that the parent municipalities maintain financial viability and service provision capabilities after segregation.
Legal Formalities and Effective Date
- The creation was formalized through an executive order signed by the President of the Philippines.
- The date of enactment and legal effect is December 29, 1961.
Important Legal Implications
- The order ensures administrative reorganization in Cotabato to better govern the designated area.
- Protects financial and operational viability of both the new municipality and the parent municipalities.
- Establishes a legal and geographic framework critical for municipal administration and governance.