Illegal Acts Concerning the Dugong
- Prohibited activities include hunting, killing, wounding, taking away, possessing, transporting, and disposing of Dugong or its meat/by-products.
- Violators face imprisonment from six months to four years or fines ranging from Php 500 to Php 5,000, or both, at the court's discretion.
- Confiscation of vessels, gear, equipment, and related paraphernalia used in the commission of these offenses shall be enforced.
- Confiscation is pursuant to DENR Administrative Order No. 38 (1991) and the Revised Penal Code.
Disposition of Confiscated Dugong and By-Products
- Confiscated Dugong or by-products shall be forfeited to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
- The DENR shall determine appropriate disposition, typically to research institutions, following DENR Administrative Order No. 36, series of 1991.
Implementing Authority and Coordination
- The Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB), via the Pawikan Conservation Project (PCP), leads implementation and conservation efforts.
- PAWB is tasked to generate funds and run a national conservation program for Dugong protection.
- Coordination is mandated between PAWB and other relevant agencies managing marine resources.
- Support for enforcement is provided by the Offices of the Undersecretary for Environment and Research and the Undersecretary for Field Operations through their bureaus and regional offices.
Effectivity of the Order
- The administrative order becomes effective 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.