LETTER OF INSTRUCTION NO. 898

Explanation: The document outlines instructions for the effective implementation of the program for small catchment basins and impounding reservoirs under the National Infrastructure Program, aimed at developing and controlling water resources for multiple uses such as flood control, irrigation, water supply, power generation, and erosion control.
Key Definitions:
- Small Water Impounding Management (SWIM) Committee: A designated group responsible for overseeing SWIM projects.
Important Requirements/Procedures:
- Establishment of the SWIM Committee and Technical Working Group (TWG) to facilitate coordination and implementation.

Explanation: The SWIM Committee is to be formed with representatives from various ministries, with designated roles and responsibilities.
Key Definitions:
- Chairman: A top official from the Ministry of Public Works (MPW).
- Co-Chairman: A top official from the Ministry of Human Settlements (MHS).
Important Requirements/Procedures:
- Membership includes representatives from the following ministries: Energy (ME), Agriculture (MA), Natural Resources (MNR), and the Budget (MB).

Explanation: The SWIM Committee is tasked with formulating policies and coordinating operational targets for SWIM projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Formulation and coordination of operational policies.
- Identification of priority areas for SWIM development.
- Adoption of annual integrated programs and budgets.
- Selection of lead implementing and cooperating agencies (e.g., NIA, FSDC, NEA).
- Overall coordination and supervision of implementation.
Reporting: Regular reports on project performance are to be submitted to the President of the Philippines.

Explanation: The TWG functions as the technical arm of the SWIM Committee, responsible for the technical aspects of SWIM projects.
Key Definitions:
- TWG: A group led by the Chairman of the Task Force for Flood Control and Related Activities (TFFCRA) and co-chaired by the Executive Director of the National Water Resources Council.
Important Requirements/Procedures:
- Each implementing agency must assign a senior technical representative to the TWG.
- The TWG is responsible for project identification, studies, program preparation, and monitoring.
Consultants and Personnel: The TWG may hire consultants and grant reimbursements as per existing laws.

Explanation: The Ministry of the Budget is responsible for releasing funds for SWIM projects based on approved budgets.
Key Procedures:
- Funds are to be released to the MPW, specifically for the TFFCRA, which will then transfer to the designated agencies.
Important Requirements:
- Adherence to approved annual programs and budgets for project execution.

The document emphasizes the establishment of a coordinated framework for managing small water impounding projects in the Philippines.
It outlines the roles and responsibilities of various ministries while ensuring that funding and implementation are aligned with national development goals.
Regular reporting to the President is mandated to ensure transparency and accountability in project execution.