Prior LLDA Resolution on Exemption from Clearance for Places of Worship
- LLDA Board Resolution No. 408-S-2011 revised the definition of development activities requiring LLDA Clearance.
- It explicitly exempted places of worship such as churches, temples, synagogues, chapels, mosques, regardless of area, from securing the LLDA Clearance.
Purpose and Policy Underlying the Resolution
- The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) emphasizes environmental protection, ecological balance, pollution prevention, climate change mitigation, and disaster risk management within the Laguna Lake Region.
- The Resolution aims to support institutional and advocacy partners in these endeavors, balancing development and environmental management.
Extensions of LLDA Clearance Exemption
- The exemption from obtaining LLDA Clearance is extended to:
- Parsonages, convents, and buildings provided for members of places of worship (churches, temples, synagogues, chapels, mosques, and similar places) regardless of religious denomination.
- Buildings or structures actually, directly, and exclusively used for religious, charitable, or non-stock, non-profit educational purposes.
- This exemption remains subject to compliance with environmental users' fees and discharge permit fees under the Philippine Clean Water Act (RA 9275), including associated penalties.
Definition of Members Entitled to Exemption
- Members eligible for the exemption are limited to church leaders, clerics, clergymen/women, priests, ecclesiastics, Christian ministers and pastors, imams or worship leaders of mosques, and duly recognized or ordained rabbis.
- Lay leaders or non-ordained members of charismatic or fellowship groups, associations, or movements are excluded.
Authorization to Compromise or Release Liability
- The LLDA General Manager is authorized to compromise or release liabilities of the aforementioned institutions regarding projects, plans, or programs implemented within the Laguna de Bay Region without prior clearance.
- This authority is subject to existing laws, auditing rules, and Board approval.
Rulemaking and Implementation
- The General Manager has the authority to promulgate rules and regulations needed for effective implementation of this Resolution.
- Any previous LLDA resolutions inconsistent with this Resolution are modified, amended, or repealed to the extent of the inconsistency.
Effectivity and Administrative Details
- The Resolution takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation and registration with the National Administrative Register at the UP Law Center.
- The Board members who approved the Resolution and the Acting Board Secretary attested to it, ensuring administrative compliance.