Role and Mandate of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
- DENR controls and supervises the exploration, development, utilization, and conservation of natural resources.
- It exercises exclusive jurisdiction over public domain lands including classification, surveying, and titling.
- DENR issues permits related to reclamation sites and Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECC), validating environmental safeguards.
Permitting and Approvals Process
- PRA approves reclamation projects on behalf of the President, conditioned on compliance with laws and regulations.
- Before PRA approval, applicants must secure a site clearance permit from DENR authorizing the location of the reclamation.
- An Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), issued by DENR, is mandatory before any reclamation work may begin.
Monitoring and Enforcement
- PRA is responsible for close monitoring and supervision of the project implementation phase.
- DENR enforces compliance with the ECC conditions and monitors environmental impacts.
Post-Completion Procedures for Reclaimed Lands
- Upon project completion, PRA and DENR conduct a survey to confirm the extent of reclaimed lands under DENR rules.
- DENR endorses to the President the proclamation for portions of reclaimed lands to be declared alienable or reserved for public use.
- Titles for reclaimed lands for public use are issued to the Republic of the Philippines.
- Reclaimed lands declared alienable and disposable are titled in PRA’s name, which may transfer ownership to qualified individuals or entities.
Legal Consolidation and Effectivity
- This order revokes and amends inconsistent previous executive orders and regulations regarding reclamation.
- The order takes effect immediately upon issuance, providing a clear division of responsibilities between DENR and PRA to avoid confusion and promote sustainable development in reclamation activities.