Centralized Control and Supervision
- The Secretary of National Defense exercises control and supervision over all aspects of aerial photography and photomapping activities.
- This control includes processing, handling, distribution, reproduction, safeguarding, and final disposition of aerial photographs and reproducible mapping materials.
Implementation and Coordination of Mapping Activities
- DND to initiate, develop, and implement continuous aerial photography and base mapping nationwide.
- Coordination with government agencies and private enterprises to maximize use of existing aerial photographs and mapping data through the BCGS.
- Requirement of prior clearance from the Secretary of National Defense or authorized representative before conducting any aerial photography.
- Continuous evaluation for declassification purposes of aerial photographs and maps.
- Access to classified photographs, maps, and reproducibles restricted to persons cleared by the Secretary of National Defense or designees.
Ownership and Custody of Aerial Photographs
- All negatives and reproducibles of aerial photographs belong to the State, regulated by the Secretary of National Defense.
- Classified aerial photographs and reproducibles to be deposited with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
- Upon declassification, these materials are transferred to the BCGS and copies may be made available to qualified persons or entities.
Regulatory Authority and Procedures
- The Secretary of National Defense is empowered to prescribe rules and procedures governing all activities relating to aerial photographs and mapping materials.
- Regulations cover the taking, handling, processing, distribution, reproduction, safekeeping, utilization, and final disposition.
- Applicable to both government agencies and private entities involved in surveying, aerial photography, and mapping.
Penalties for Unauthorized Activities
- Unauthorized sale, use, or improper disposition of aerial photograph materials classified as SECRET or higher:
- Imprisonment from six (6) to twelve (12) years.
- Fine up to Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,000.00).
- Or both, as directed by the court.
- Unauthorized sale, use, or improper disposition of materials classified as CONFIDENTIAL:
- Imprisonment from six (6) months to six (6) years.
- Fine up to Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00).
- Or both, as directed by the court.
Repeal and Effectivity
- Republic Act No. 2912 is repealed.
- Conflicting laws, rules, and regulations are modified or repealed accordingly.
- This Decree takes effect immediately upon promulgation.