Significance of Whale Shark in Philippine Waters
- Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) signifies marine biodiversity richness in the Philippines.
- Philippines identified as one of 18 mega-biodiverse countries globally.
- Whale shark is the largest fish and one of the most charismatic and endangered species due to fishing pressures.
International Conservation Status and Agreements
- Whale shark listed in Appendix II of CITES, regulating trade.
- Listed in Appendix II of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) due to unfavorable conservation status.
- Philippines hosted and participated in technical meetings and signed Memorandum of Understanding for international cooperation on migratory sharks.
Ecotourism and Livelihood Importance
- Whale shark watching contributes significantly to ecotourism.
- Local coastal communities benefit economically from whale shark conservation.
Need for Intensified Protection Measures
- Despite existing laws, threats and killings of whale sharks persist.
- Incident in Batangas in 2010 underscores necessity for strengthened protection.
- Philippine government's commitment to uphold international conservation plans and agreements.
Section 1: Locating, Monitoring, and Protecting Whale Shark Pathways
- Agencies involved: AFP (Philippine Navy), Coast Guard, PNP Maritime Command, DA (BFAR), DENR, and LGUs.
- Coordination with academic institutions and marine experts mandated.
- Creation of mapped pathways for whale shark routes for public information.
- Cooperation of all seagoing vessels emphasized.
Section 2: Mandatory Rescue of Wounded Whale Sharks
- LGUs required to initiate rescue of any wounded whale shark within jurisdiction.
- Immediate coordination with Navy, Coast Guard, PNP, DA, and DENR for care, treatment, release.
Section 3: Investigation and Prosecution of Violators
- NBI and National Prosecution Service tasked to intensify investigation, filing, and prosecution of criminal violations involving whale shark protection laws.
Section 4: Reward or Incentive for Whale Shark Protection
- Persons providing information leading to arrest of offenders or rescue of wounded whale sharks entitled to government reward or incentive.
- DA and DENR directed to draft implementing rules.
Section 5: Funding Allocation
- PhP 15,000,000.00 from the Presidential Social Fund allocated to support capacity building, monitoring, and enforcement activities by LGUs and national agencies.
Section 6: Repealing Clause
- Revocation, amendment, or modification of inconsistent proclamations, executive orders, rules, regulations, or other issuances.
Section 7: Separability Clause
- Unconstitutional or invalid provisions do not affect the validity of remaining provisions.
Section 8: Effectivity
- The Administrative Order takes effect immediately upon publication in a national newspaper of general circulation.