Law Summary

Background

• Legal Principle: This Executive Order recognizes water as a vital resource for human survival and sustainable economic development.
• Context: There is an urgent need to manage water resources due to their declining quality and quantity, which could lead to critical shortages.
• Call to Action: The Executive Order emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive water conservation program with private sector involvement.

Creation and Composition of the Committee

• Establishment: A Committee on Water Conservation and Demand Management (referred to as "the Committee") is created to address water conservation issues.
• Composition:
  • Chairman: Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways
  • Co-Chairman: Secretary of the Department of Energy
  • Members from various departments including:
    • Interior and Local Government
    • Education, Culture and Sports
    • Science and Technology
    • Trade and Industry
    • Environment and Natural Resources
    • Agriculture
    • Health
    • National Economic and Development Authority
    • Office of the Press Secretary
    • Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System
    • Local Water Utilities Administration
    • National Power Corporation
    • National Irrigation Administration
    • Metropolitan Manila Authority
    • Private Sector Representatives: Three representatives appointed by the President upon recommendation of the Chairman.

Powers and Functions of the Committee

• Responsibilities:
  • Develop a nationwide Water Conservation Plan focused on both quality and quantity of water.
  • Launch an information campaign to raise awareness about water conservation.
  • Promote active participation from the private sector in water conservation initiatives.
  • Conduct research and monitoring of water consumption in public and private sectors.
  • Mobilize funds for the implementation of the Committee's objectives.
  • Execute additional tasks necessary for fulfilling the aims of this Executive Order.

Sub-committees and Task Forces

• Formation: The Committee is empowered to create sub-committees and task forces as necessary for effective function execution.

Implementing Guidelines and Programs

• Development: The Committee must create implementing programs and guidelines necessary to achieve the objectives of the Executive Order.

Coordination with Other Entities

• Authority: The Committee can enlist support from any government agency, local government units, NGOs, and private entities for the implementation of this Executive Order.

Repealing Clause

• Effect: Any existing presidential acts, executive orders, or regulations inconsistent with this Executive Order are repealed, amended, or modified.

Effectivity

• Immediate Implementation: The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon signing.

Key Takeaways

• The Executive Order establishes a structured approach to water conservation in the Philippines, with a dedicated committee comprising various government departments and private sector representatives.
• The Committee is tasked with creating a comprehensive Water Conservation Plan and promoting public awareness and private sector involvement.
• The order allows for the establishment of sub-committees and mobilization of resources from various entities to support its objectives.
• All conflicting regulations are repealed, emphasizing the order's authority in the domain of water conservation.