Law Summary
Functions and Responsibilities of the Commission
- Prepare a detailed master plan for the development of the Vigan Heritage Village and Tourism Complex
- Review and submit the master plan and development program to the President for approval
- Provide overall direction and coordination for planning and monitoring of development projects including tourism, environmental protection, investment promotion, social development, and institutional-building
- Formulate policies addressing environmental protection, poverty alleviation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development
- Encourage support from government and non-government institutions for implementation
- Review and endorse the annual budget for operations to the Department of Budget and Management
- Submit regular reports, including quarterly progress reports, to the President
- Accept and manage grants, donations, or funds for project development
- Mobilize private sector participation as the primary drivers of development
- Conduct advocacy and investment promotion activities
- Adopt necessary rules, systems, procedures, and structures for effective function
Executive Committee (ExCom)
- Created to oversee day-to-day operations
- Comprised of no more than one-third of the full Commission members
- Members appointed by the Commission
- Chairman must have provincial knowledge and perspective
- Actions by the ExCom require confirmation by the full Commission
Technical Working Group (TWG)
- Serves as the technical secretariat for day-to-day project activities
- Created by the Commission or ExCom
- Headed by an Executive Director appointed by the President
- Composed of representatives from concerned line agencies
- Secretariat support provided by Department of Tourism Region I and Provincial Development Staff
Funding and Budget Provisions
- Initial operational budget for 1996 set at Two Million Pesos (P2,000,000) from the President's Contingent Fund, DOT, and local government units
- Future funding to be included in the Office of the President's budget proposals
Repeal and Effectivity Clause
- All executive issuances, orders, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this Executive Order are revoked or modified accordingly
- Executive Order takes effect immediately upon promulgation
Legal and Political Context
- Created to support the North Western Luzon Growth Quadrangle (NWLGQ) tourism development initiative
- Vigan and adjacent municipalities designated as major tourism destination under the Vigan Heritage Village and Tourism Complex
- Recognizes the uniqueness and rich cultural heritage of Vigan, aiming to restore, conserve, and promote the area
- Encourages strong collaboration among government agencies, local governments, and private sector
This detailed structure ensures the focused and coordinated effort to develop Vigan as a heritage tourism hub with sustainable socio-economic benefits.