Title
Supreme Court
Devolving HLRB subdivision approval to LGUs
Law
Executive Order No. 71
Decision Date
Mar 23, 1993
Executive Order No. 71 devolves the powers of the HLURB to local government units in the Philippines, allowing cities and municipalities to approve subdivision plans and enforce compliance with national laws and standards.

Law Summary

Retention of Remaining HLRB Powers

  • HLRB retains all powers and functions not expressly devolved to local government units (LGUs).

Enforcement Officers Designated by Local Chief Executives

  • LGUs shall designate enforcement officers qualified per HLRB standards.
  • Officers will monitor, investigate, and enforce compliance with devolved national laws and standards.
  • Enforcement officers have authority to initiate preliminary monitoring and enforcement upon request.
  • They must refer cases to HLRB for final disposition and enforcement.
  • Enforcement officers work under the functional supervision of the HLRB, which will issue operating procedures and guidelines.

Procedures on Overlooked or Erroneous Permit Issuances by LGUs

  • HLRB may suspend processing and return applications if a local government misapplies laws or standards.
  • Affected LGU will have 30 days to take corrective action upon receipt of HLRB advice.

Transition Rules for Devolution Implementation

  • HLRB will stop accepting new subdivision approval applications once local governments begin processing them.
  • Where LGUs are unprepared or non-responsive, HLRB continues to process applications until LGUs formally notify readiness.
  • A minimum 30-day transition period shall be observed for the orderly transfer of records and functions.
  • Existing active applications with HLRB shall be transferred to LGUs for processing.

Technical and Legal Support by HLRB

  • HLRB shall provide adequate technical and legal training and assistance to LGUs requesting support for their new functions.

Severability Clause

  • If any provision is declared invalid by a competent court, the remaining provisions continue to be effective.

Superseding Clause and Effectivity

  • This Executive Order supersedes inconsistent orders.
  • It takes effect immediately upon publication in two newspapers of general circulation.

Analyze Cases Smarter, Faster
Jur is a legal research platform serving the Philippines with case digests and jurisprudence resources. AI digests are study aids only—use responsibly.