DENR Guidelines for Critical Habitat Management

Critical Habitat: Areas outside protected zones known as habitats of threatened species, designated based on scientific data considering endemicity and man-made threats
Ecosystem: Dynamic interaction of plant, animal, microorganism communities with their non-living environment
Endemic Species: Species naturally occurring only in specific areas within the Philippines
Threatened Species: Species at risk of extinction categorized as critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable
Species Richness: Number of species per unit area

Primary consideration is the presence of threatened species based on best scientific data
Includes species listed in DAO 2004-15 or those posing extinction risk even if not listed
Considers areas used for critical life activities (breeding, nesting, foraging)
Evaluates man-made threats like logging, mining, squatting, and mineral exploration
Includes priority conservation areas per Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priority Setting Program
Considers other natural resources with social and economic impact

Initiated either by DENR or upon request by LGUs, private individuals/landowners, groups, or other parties
Validation of threatened species by DENR Protected Areas and Wildlife Division, coordinated with local communities
Population and habitat assessment conducted by a Composite Team of DENR technical staff, LGU reps, and experts as necessary
Assessment parameters include population estimates, wildlife presence, ecosystem status, presence of settlers, threats, land use, and management issues
Community consultation mandatory for public lands; for private lands, written landowner consent suffices
DENR Regional Office consolidates data and submits recommendation to DENR Secretary via PAWB
DENR Secretary issues Order declaring the area as critical habitat
Ground truthing and boundary delineation performed using natural features and GPS with possible permanent markers

LGUs may initiate establishment by passing a resolution or ordinance after completing DENR-guided validation and assessment
LGU submits documents and resolution/ordinance to DENR Secretary for issuance of declaration Order
LGU and DENR coordinate for boundary delineation after declaration

Managed in partnership with LGUs and concerned groups through Memoranda of Agreement (MOA)
MOA applies to partnerships with LGUs, POs, NGOs, IP/ICCs, private sector, and tenure holders or landowners
DENR may delegate full management to LGUs, NGOs or individuals under MOA

Jointly developed by DENR Regional Office, LGU, and relevant parties
Should include:
1. Objectives
2. Key management issues
3. Site management strategies and activities (e.g., monitoring, community organizing, habitat rehabilitation)
4. Administrative arrangements

Collection and utilization governed by RA 9147, its Implementing Rules and Regulations, and other relevant laws

Takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in a newspaper of national circulation and acknowledgement by the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR)