Establishment of Philippine Fish Marketing Authority (PFMA)
- PFMA is created to implement the policy on fishery development.
- It is under the supervision of the Secretary of Natural Resources.
Principal Office and Branches
- The main office of the PFMA is located in Metro Manila.
- The PFMA may establish branches nationwide as necessary to fulfill its objectives.
Functions and Powers of PFMA
- Manage and modernize fish ports, markets, and landing areas placed under its jurisdiction.
- Develop comprehensive plans for fishing port and market complexes and update these as necessary.
- Construct and manage infrastructure such as warehouses, cold storage, ice plants, and related facilities.
- Acquire, hold, or dispose of real and personal property for its functions.
- Provide market intelligence and advisory services to stakeholders.
- Regulate and supervise authorized enterprises within fishery facilities.
- Fix and collect fees, tolls, charges, and rentals to generate revenue.
- Contract indebtedness and issue bonds, subject to government approval.
- Promulgate operational rules for fishing boat use of harbor facilities.
- Exercise perpetual succession and other corporate powers (e.g., sue, enter contracts).
- Acquire and operate vessels, fishing gear, refrigerated vehicles and plants, communication facilities, and other related assets.
- Engage in marketing fish and seafood products domestically and for export when necessary.
- Exercise eminent domain to fulfill its purposes.
Capitalization
- Composed of the assets of the Navotas Fish Landing and other properties transferred by government agencies.
- Includes cash contributions approved by the Office of the President and incorporated in the national budget.
Board of Directors Composition
- Headed by Secretary of Natural Resources (Chairman).
- Includes Secretaries of Public Works and Trade, President of Food Terminal, Director of Fisheries, and two private sector representatives appointed by the President.
- Vice-Chairman acts as chairman in absence of the Chairman.
Powers and Duties of the Board
- Adopt and amend the Authority's by-laws.
- Issue policies and implement rules/regulations for PFMA operations.
- Approve the annual and supplementary budgets.
- Set rates for fees, tolls, and rentals of administration-owned properties.
- Organize and manage staffing, including appointments and salary determinations.
- Approve contracts and agreements necessary for efficient operations.
- Submit reports to the President as needed.
- Exercise all powers necessary to achieve the objectives of the Decree.
Management Structure
- The General Manager manages day-to-day operations, appointed by the Board and removable only for cause.
- The Assistant General Manager assists and acts as General Manager in their absence.
General Manager’s Powers and Duties
- Implement Board policies, programs, and regulations.
- Manage daily affairs and operational efficiency of the Authority.
- Conduct studies to assess fish market needs and update manpower requirements.
- Recommend staffing patterns and compensation, subject to Board approval.
- Appoint, dismiss, promote, and transfer personnel below Assistant General Manager.
- Submit periodic and special reports to the Board.
- Perform delegated duties as necessary.
Non-Profit Status and Tax Exemption
- PFMA operates on a non-profit basis, using excess revenues for development and maintenance.
- Exempt from income tax, although exemption may be lifted after five years upon certain conditions.
Jurisdiction Over the Navotas Fishing Port and Other Facilities
- Navotas Fish Market and its associated facilities are transferred under PFMA control.
- The Board may establish additional fish markets and related infrastructure with Presidential approval.
Repealing Clause
- All inconsistent laws, orders, and regulations are repealed.
Effectivity
- The Decree takes effect immediately upon promulgation.