Law Summary
Legal Authority and Basis
- Proclamation issued by the President of the Philippines under powers vested by law.
- Action taken upon recommendation of the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources.
Geographic and Technical Description
- Reserve boundaries are meticulously described with reference points and directions.
- The area covered by the reserve is approximately 300 hectares.
- The technical description modifies the earlier designation under Proclamation No. 245, dated January 18, 1956, establishing the Southern Zambales Forest Reserve.
Restrictions and Withdrawal of Land from Disposition
- The land is withdrawn from entry, sale, disposition, or settlement.
- This withdrawal is subject to prior existing private rights if any.
Administration and Coordination
- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is tasked with administration and management.
- DENR will coordinate with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Subic, the Subic Water District, and other stakeholders.
Management Objectives and Priorities
- Maintain the area as a reliable source of water for domestic and other uses.
- Emphasizes production and conservation of water as the primary objective.
- All other uses of the forest shall be subordinate to water protection purposes.
Watershed Management Council
- An Organized Watershed Management Council is designated as the policy-making body for the reserve.
- Membership of the Council may be expanded to include representatives of major stakeholders.
Effective Date and Formalization
- The proclamation was signed and sealed on August 29, 2008, in Manila by the President and the Executive Secretary.