Purpose and policy directive
- The instructions direct correction of overlapping and duplication between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Customs in salvage permitting.
- The instructions aim to promote simplicity, economy, and efficiency in government service.
- The instructions are intended to provide a healthier economic atmosphere for the salvage operations business.
- The instructions reallocate salvage permitting functions to avoid conflict and duplication.
Coverage and allocation of permitting powers
- The Philippine Coast Guard is solely authorized to issue permits to salvage derelicts and sunken vessels or wrecks.
- The Bureau of Customs is solely authorized to issue permits to salvage cargoes carried by sunken vessels.
- When salvage operations involve both salvage of ships and cargoes, the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Coast Guard must coordinate to avoid possible conflict.
- Salvage permits and licenses cover salvage of derelicts, sunken vessels or wrecks, and cargoes carried by sunken vessels within the framework of these directives.
Presidential approval requirement
- All salvage permits or licenses are not valid unless approved by the President.
- Presidential approval applies to permits issued under the allocated functions of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Customs.
- Coordination between agencies is required in mixed ship-and-cargo salvages while maintaining the Presidential approval condition.
Guidelines for permit issuance
- Only bona-fide or qualified salvage companies or corporations shall be authorized to undertake salvage operations.
- Salvage operations must be started and finished within a reasonable period after issuance of licenses or permits.
- These issuance guidelines govern the authorization of salvage under both agencies’ permit-issuing responsibilities.
Implementation through recommended rules
- The Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Customs are authorized to recommend to the President the necessary rules and regulations to implement the instructions.
- Coordination for mixed salvages is operationalized through agency-to-agency coordination under the directive.
Transitory effect and compliance structure
- The instructions direct immediate effect, making compliance required upon issuance.
- Compliance is structured by: (a) exclusive agency permitting authority by subject matter, (b) mandatory Presidential approval for validity, and (c) uniform issuance guidelines (qualified companies and time-bound operations).